FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prince George, B.C. – The City of Prince George urges residents to secure their garbage and manage bear attractants this season as bear sightings are increasing throughout the community.
The City works collaboratively with the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS), Northern Bear Awareness Society, and the RCMP during bear season to ensure residents are aware of local bylaws and reduce wildlife interactions. To date, the bylaw division has responded to more than 160 wildlife attractant complaints in 2026 and reminds residents that everyone has a responsibility in keeping Prince George neighbourhoods safe.
A $300 fine can be issued for keeping wildlife attractants such as fruit, bird feeders, or garbage accessible to bears and other wildlife as outlined in the Property Maintenance Bylaw. In addition, the Garbage Regulation Bylaw states that garbage cans may only be placed on the curb between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. on collection day. Failing to follow this regulation will result in a $100 fine. Fines can be issued to property owners, renters, or guests in the case of a short-term rental. Owners of rental properties must ensure tenants or houseguests are educated and aware of local bylaws and other measures to reduce bear attractants.
“The City’s bylaw division responds to hundreds of garbage and wildlife attractant-related complaints every year and issues tickets and warnings when necessary,” said bylaw services manager, Kent MacNeill.
“There are a number of easy things residents can do to prevent bears from entering their properties and avoid a visit from bylaw officers. Locking garbage cans in a shed or garage when possible, securing the lid with a ratchet strap or bungee cord, and picking up fallen apples and ripe fruit are our biggest recommendations during bear season.”
More information about how to protect your property is available on the City website.
Who to call?
Not all wildlife complaints should be directed to the City:
- To report a bear conflict, aggressive bear behaviour, or a bear in an urban area, call the COS Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1-877-952-7277.
- To report a bear that is an immediate threat (i.e., chasing someone or trying to get into a house), call 911.
- To report someone who is not following a wildlife attractant-related bylaw, such as garbage cans being put out too early, call bylaw services at 311 or submit a service request using the City of PG mobile app.
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Media contact:
Kendall Robertson, senior communications advisor
Mobile: 778-349-5393
Email: media@princegeorge.ca