Relocating or destroying a bear

Sometimes a bear causing problems must be relocated or destroyed. These methods should be used only after exhausting all other options. Your local DNR Area Wildlife Manager may relocated a bear if he or she determines this is the best solution. Bears will not be relocated for causing minor property damage, such as tearing down bird feeders or tipping over garbage cans. Relocated bears seldom remain where they are released. They may return to where they were caught or become a problem somewhere else.

When a bear must be killed, the DNR can assign a licensed hunter or issue a special permit to shoot it. A person may kill a bear to protect their property, however this option should be used only if the bear is causing immediate danger or significant property damage. Bears are the property of the State of Minnesota. The killing of a problem bear must be reported to a Conservation Officer within 48 hours.