Preventing human-bear conflict
Most of BC is considered "bear country" with bears living in a variety of ecosystems. Bears are most active from April to November but in milder climates, or where they are continuously finding food, bears may not go into their dens and may be searching for non-natural food sources year-round.
Bears will consume any food they can find. Garbage is the most reported attractant. Other attractants around the home can include bird feeders, pet food, fruit droppings, smelly barbeques, unattended compost and more. Help minimize encounters by keeping your property clear of attractants. Preventing human-bear conflict is a community responsibility.
What to do if you encounter wildlife?
For sightings of bears, cougars or coyotes in the community or to report other human-wildlife conflicts, contact BC Conservation Officers at 1-877-952-7277. Learn more on the BC Government's report human-wildlife conflict webpage.
Reporting a bear sighting does not mean the bear will be euthanized. Conservation Officers determine best course of action on a case-by-case basis.
Garbage management regulations
The Solid Waste Management Regulation | Bylaw No. 1253 states all garbage, yard waste and recyclables carts should be made accessible for pick-up only between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on the day of collection.
Residents should be aware that it is an offence under the BC Wildlife Act section 33.1 to provide, leave, or place attractants for dangerous wildlife (bears, wolves, cougars, and coyotes).
Education and awareness
For more information on reducing human-wildlife conflict visit WildSafeBC.
Or email the local WildSafeBC Community Coordinator: centralok@wildsafebc.com. (Please note, this email is only monitored during the season, typically from April to November).
For general inquiries during the off-season, email programs@wildsafebc.com.
Tips for curbside carts
- Curbside collection carts must be brought out on the morning of your collection day, not the night before.
- Keep carts in a secure location (like a garage or shed) or secure containers to a structure so they can’t be dragged away.
- Freeze meat and strong smelling food scraps until your collection day.
- Rinse recycling materials before placing in your cart to eliminate food residue and odours.
- Keep your carts clean between collection days and wash periodically with a bleach solution.
Cart tips for long driveways
- Leave your carts as close as possible to their collection location, usually where your driveway meets the road and transfer waste materials to the carts on collection day only.
- Contact your municipality to ensure that the location meets property line setback requirements.
- A small shed may help with storing bins by the road.
Tips for yards
- Pick fruit as soon as it is ripe and collect fallen fruit from off the ground.
- Feed pets indoors and keep all food bowls inside.
- Clean BBQ grills after each use.
- Store fridges and freezers inside.
- Avoid using bird feeders during bear season (April to November).
- Practice responsible backyard composting:
- Use lime (made from ground limestone).
- Turn compost often.
- Cut food waste into small bits.
- Layer greens (vegetable scraps, lawn clippings) with browns (leaves).
- Never add meat, fish, fats, oils or grains.
Bear resistant carts: not available yet
Bear resistant carts can help prevent bears from accessing garbage. These carts should still be stored in a garage or shed. The RDCO has tested several bear resistant carts. The search for an effective bear resistant cart, that is both user-friendly and durable against bear damage is ongoing.