Maple Ridge, B.C., Aug 19, 2026 – With recent bear incidents and activity increasing, the City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents to be bear-aware and take steps to protect both their homes and local wildlife.
As bears prepare for hibernation in the fall, they enter a period of increased feeding called hyperphagia. They may travel farther and spend more time looking for high-calorie food, often entering residential neighbourhoods when attractants are easily available.
Garbage, compost, pet food, bird feeders, fallen fruit and unclean barbecues can draw bears and other wildlife into neighbourhoods. Managing these attractants is the most effective way to help prevent potentially dangerous human-wildlife interactions and protect local wildlife.
“Recent bear activity is a reminder that everyone has a role in keeping our neighbourhoods safe,” said Michelle Adams, Director of Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety. “Bears that find food in residential areas are likely to return. Securing attractants is one of the most effective ways to prevent conflicts and protect residents, pets and wildlife.”
To help keep bears, wildlife, and residents safe, the City recommends the following:
- Secure Garbage: Store garbage in wildlife-resistant containers or a secure building. Place garbage carts out no earlier than 5:00 a.m. and remove by 7:00 p.m. on collection day.
- Remove Bird Feeders: Consider taking bird feeders down until winter.
- Manage Compost Properly: Use bear-resistant composters and avoid adding meat, fish, or cooked food scraps to your compost. Freeze smelly garbage until collection day.
- Clean BBQs: After each use, thoroughly clean your BBQ to remove food residue and grease.
- Feed Pets Indoors: Do not leave pet food outside and feed pets indoors.
- Secure Beehives and Livestock: Use fencing to protect beehives, chicken coops, and other small livestock.
- Fruit trees: Pick ripened fruit from trees and vines immediately.
Residents are advised to report wildlife-human interactions where public safety may be at risk to the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).
If you encounter a bear:
- Stay calm and do not run.
- Back away slowly while speaking in a calm voice.
- Give the animal plenty of space to leave the area.
- Keep pets leashed and close to you, especially during early morning or evening hours.
The City's Wildlife and Vector Control Bylaw aims to reduce human-wildlife interactions and ensure wildlife protection and public safety. Those found contravening this bylaw can be issued daily fines ranging from $100 to $500.
For more information on bear safety and to access additional resources, visit wildsafebc.com or contact mrwildsafebc@gmail.com.
Report concerns related to garbage or wildlife attractants at MapleRidge.ca/Report or contact the City’s Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety team at 604 467 7305 or bylaws@mapleridge.ca.