Qualicum Beach town council has amended its garbage collection bylaw, a move the town says will help reduce the instances of garbage being left outside overnight, which has been linked to an increase in bear activity throughout the town.
Collection changes are as follows:
• Garbage is only permitted to be placed at the curb on the day of collection between the hours of 5 a.m. and 8 a.m.
• Garbage and food waste must be securely stored in an animal-resistant accessory building, or in an animal-resistant container designed to discourage and prevent access by animals.
• Garbage must be placed into garbage containers. Plastic bags are not permitted to be placed at the roadside.
• As of January 1, 2013 green bins for food waste will be available for purchase at the Town Hall for $25.