Small StepsHow to Responsibly Dispose of bear spray in Banff and Canmore.
If you’ve recently explored the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, it’s likely you picked up some bear spray for your trek through bear country. Essentially pepper spray on steroids, bear spray is your last resort if a bear is running towards you.
In Canada, bear spray is legal in wilderness environments where an encounter with a bear is possible. However it could be considered a concealed weapon if carried in a city or unreasonable setting – the person could be charged under 90 (1) of the Criminal Code of Canada. Therefore, proper use and disposal of bear spray is imperative.
Purchasing Bear Spray
Bear spray is available at most hardware (Canadian Tire) and hiking stores. It averages 49-79 CAD. At the time of purchase you will fill out a form with your information (name, address, and the product serial number).
You will then be instructed on its proper use and warned against improper disposal, for example, giving your canister to a fellow hiker, or leaving it at your hotel. This is because the serial number is registered in your name. If someone you gave it to were to use it unlawfully, for example on another human, you could be liable. Some hotels may tell you it can be left with them, however I strongly advise against that, even though I know it feels wasteful if it has not been used, you need to protect yourself legally.
Disposing of Bear Spray
Disposing of bear spray responsibly is not only important for the environment but also for public safety and liability. It is considered a hazardous waste material, and therefore cannot be discarded in regular trash.
Why Proper Disposal Matters:
- Environmental Impact: The active ingredient (Capsaicin) can be harmful to wildlife and aquatic life if improperly disposed of.
- Safety Concerns: If not disposed of correctly, bear spray could fall into the wrong hands and be misused. This would leave you liable as the serial number is in your name.
- Legal Regulations: Improper disposal might violate local regulations and park policies. For more information on the legalities of use and disposal, check out this article.
Disposal Options in Banff and Canmore
There are a few disposal options that aren’t too inconvenient in Banff and Canmore.
Your options are:
- Fire Stations: We opted for the fire station in Canmore (1200 Steward Rd, Canmore, AB T1W 2Z7, Canada), they have a Bear Spray drop-box out front that made for easy disposal. Only 3 minutes outside of the downtown area, it’s hardly inconvenient for the peace of mind.
- Parks Canada Visitor Centers: Contact a Parks Canada visitor center in the area. They may accept bear spray for training or demonstration purposes
- Town of Banff Operations Center: The Operations Center in Banff (120 Hawk Avenue) accepts bear spray for disposal.
- Hazardous Waste Disposal: In Canmore, inquire about hazardous waste collection days or designated drop-off locations (possibly the most inconvenient).
What NOT to Do
Never throw bear spray in the garbage or recycling. It is considered to be hazardous waste and is harmful to the very environment you just enjoyed.
Don’t leave it in your hotel room or rental car, it is a huge liability and may or may not be properly handled or disposed of afterwards. Our hotel front desk actually told us they would give it to other visitors if we left it with them – when I questioned if this was okay due to the legalities, they changed their tune and said actually it’s not okay.
So it’s best not to risk it, despite may people online suggesting otherwise. Remember, this is essentially a concealed weapon in Canada – don’t take unnecessary risks.
Avoid Emptying the Can into the Environment: If you choose to spray the contents into the air and dispose of the empty bottle, this is still harmful to the environment and potentially youself.
This is very potent and can cause extreme discomfort and pain to your eyes and throat. We did a test spray down wind (as advised by the wilderness staff to get a feel for it – I have since learned it’s possible to purchase test bottles without capsacian) and it still burned our nose and throats.
Final Thoughts
Important Note: Always check with the specific location for their current disposal policies and procedures, as they can change. You cannot bring bear spray onto a checked or carry-on plane. It is best to dispose of it before the airport. I am not sure what TSA will do if you need to dispose of it at the airport or before leaving the country.
Let’s keep our wilderness areas safe and pristine by disposing of bear spray responsibly. Have you found any other helpful disposal methods in the area? Share your tips in the comments below!
