Reducing Wildlife Conflict

October 10, 2025

It’s the time of year when we see an increase in bear activity around town, and securing
attractants is the best way to keep people safe, prevent property damage, and avoid
unnecessary wildlife conflict.

Please remember that your garbage and organics waste bins are intended to be securely
stored inside between collection days. If you don’t have anywhere secure to store your
waste the City provides 24/7 bearproof bins, or you can visit the transfer station.

It’s critical to also take time to pick ripe fruit, collect any fallen fruit, and manage attractants such as barbeques, pet food, bird feeders by keeping them clean or out of reach, so they don’t tempt bears to hang around human-inhabited areas.

The City of Fernie has implemented a two-tier fine system for the accumulation, placement, storage or collection of wildlife attractants in a manner that attracts wildlife. The fine for a first offence is $250, and the fines for second and subsequent offences are $500.

Additionally, residents are responsible for any required replacement and repair costs of improperly stored garbage and recycling bins damaged by wildlife.  

Find the location of our bearproof bins, and waste collection info at
fernie.ca/wastecollection