Some Okotoks residents have been starting conversations on what to do when someone else is disposing of garbage in their black bins.

Peter Stapely, Acting Municipal Enforcement Manager for the Town of Okotoks, says in order for action to be taken, they need information from the complainant.

"It is an offence to put your garbage in someone else's bin without permission. In order for us to investigate and undertake any action in regards to that, we need an idea as to where to go. Whether that is witnessing someone, or getting a licence plate on a vehicle that has come by and done this," he said.

Stapely says this is a bylaw offence and can cause bigger problems.

"A lot of people may think it's not a big deal, but the problem is, if the bin is left open, or it pops the lid and that garbage doesn't get picked up, then it does become a big deal. Because now someone doesn't have their garbage picked up and they have to wait another week," he said.

He says officers will always try to educate residents on the community standards bylaws before issuing a fine.

The fine for placing garbage in someone else's black bin in the town of Okotoks is $250.

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