Pitt Meadows is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, deer, raccoons, skunks and many other species. While these animals are a valued part of our natural surroundings, it is important for residents to take steps that reduce conflict and keep both people and wildlife safe.
Wildlife often enters neighbourhoods in search of food, water or shelter. By removing attractants and securing potential food sources, residents can help protect their families, pets and property while supporting local wildlife.
Under the B.C. Wildlife Act, it’s illegal to attract or leave attractants accessible to bears, coyotes, wolves or cougars. This applies to all property types, including stratas and co-ops. Fines may apply.
General Wildlife Safety Tips
- Store garbage, recycling and green waste carts inside or in a wildlife-resistant enclosure until collection day.
- Place carts at the curb only between 5:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on collection day, as required by the City's Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Bylaw No. 2568, 2012.
- Keep waste carts clean to reduce odours.
- Store refrigerators and freezers inside.
- Harvest fruits and vegetables promptly and clean up fallen produce regularly.
- Keep pet food indoors and do not leave livestock feed outside.
- Suspend bird feeders and clean up spilled bird seed. Avoid using bird feeders from April to October.
- Practice responsible backyard composting and avoid composting meat, dairy, bones or grease.
- Clean barbecue grills after each use and store them securely.
- Remove food scraps and litter from parks, trails and other public spaces.
Black Bears
Black bears are common in the region and usually emerge from hibernation in the spring—timing can vary, depending on weather and terrain. Once bears become reliant on human-provided food sources, they can pose risks to public safety.
The City of Pitt Meadows Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Bylaw 2568, 2012 requires that solid waste containers and collection carts are stored in wildlife resistant enclosures if attracting wildlife.
For more information on black bears, see below or visit the WildSafeBC website.
Coyotes
Coyotes are often seen in both residential and rural areas. While they rarely pose a threat to people, they may see pets as prey and can sometimes act aggressively.
For more information on coyotes, see below or visit the WildSafeBC website.
Report Wildlife Encounters
If you see a black bear or coyote in your neighbourhood or a local park:
- Report it to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
- If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Bylaw Services at 604-465-2428 ext. 2 or at bylaw@pittmeadows.ca. Your reports help track wildlife activity and support education and enforcement efforts that keep both animals and people safe.
Illegal Dumping Attracts Wildlife
Illegal dumping can attract bears and other wildlife into our neighbourhoods. Help keep Pitt Meadows safe. Stop it. Report it.