Connecticut Issued Electric Bear-Deterrent Mat Guidance
State officials released DIY instructions for homeowners to help prevent bear entries into houses.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has released guidance on constructing electric bear-deterrent mats for homeowners. This follows a rise in bear activity, with reports of over 50 home entries recorded across the state in 2026.
Why it matters
The state released these instructions as a response to the increasing frequency of bear home entries, which have climbed from 40 in 2025 to over 50 in 2026. These devices aim to provide a nonlethal deterrent to help protect household safety and property in all 169 cities and towns.
Bears have entered 265 homes from 2020 through 2025, with sightings now recorded in all 169 Connecticut towns. The state recommends that any DIY mats use an energizer with an output of 0.5 to 1.0 joules and maintain a minimum voltage of 6,000 volts.
The players
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
This state agency manages wildlife conservation efforts and promotes public safety regarding interactions with native black bear populations.
Bear Busters
A company that specializes in bear deterrent technology and was responsible for creating the first electric doormats in 2010.
The details
The mat functions by completing an electrical circuit when a bear steps on the surface, delivering a nonlethal shock. Constructing the device requires galvanized hardware cloth, a rubber mat, zip ties, and an electric fence energizer. Residents who are unable to build their own mats can contact the state for a loan program to access the equipment.
Timeline
1988: The initial patent for an electric animal-deterrent mat was filed.
2010: The first electric doormats for bears were created by Bear Busters.
2020-2025: Bears entered 265 homes across Connecticut.
2025: State agencies recorded 40 total bear home entries.
2026: The number of bear home entries reached over 50.
The Home Front
Connecticut is following a trend of specialized wildlife exclusion that has been established for years in other regions like Lake Tahoe. This move represents a shift toward active electronic deterrence as an answer to the rising frequency of human-bear encounters in residential areas.
If you live in a high-activity area, consider whether an electric mat is an appropriate addition to your home security plan. Consult with a licensed professional to ensure any electric fencing is installed safely and complies with all local property codes.
The takeaway
The state has introduced these designs as a proactive measure to keep bears away from residential entry points. If you are concerned about bear activity at your property, contact the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to inquire about their mat loan program.
Further reading
Learn more about local fauna and coexistence strategies in the Wildlife section.
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Is now a good time to install electric bear-deterrent mats in your neighborhood?
