Strathcona County moves to fire advisory

Strathcona County has reduced its fire ban to a fire advisory effective immediately, due to cooler temperatures, rain and resource availability. Under a fire advisory, fire and fireworks permits are valid however they may be temporarily suspended based on the current conditions. Outdoor recreational fire pits and all barbecues are now allowed.

“With the amount of rain we are receiving and forecasted cooler temperatures, our risk of wildfire has dropped,” said Fire Chief Martin Paulson. “We ask residents to remain cautious with any burning as conditions may change. Call or text the Burning Status Line before burning. Even with the recent rain, it can take only a few days for the risk to increase again due to the pre-existing dry conditions.” 

Just prior to burning, fire permit holders must phone the Burning Status Line at 780-464-8464 or text BURN to 587-340-3696 to ensure that burning is allowed at that time. Check back throughout the day as conditions may change.  

Fire permits can be obtained online at strathcona.ca/FirePermit. Fire permits are required for open fires such as yard debris and brush. Burn barrels also require a permit and are only allowed in rural areas.

Recreational fire pits must be in a contained non-combustible structure and have a screen. Fire pits must be at least three metres from structures, fences, decks or trees. Residents are advised to use caution and monitor fires at all times.  

Fire permits are not required for recreational fires such as fire pits with a screen, pots or bowls. Smudge fires are allowed without a burn permit in rural areas on lands two acres or greater. 

Further information on safety and regulations for outdoor fires and burning is available at strathcona.ca/FirePermit. 

To receive notifications on when a fire ban or restriction is called, sign up for SC Alerts at strathcona.ca/SCAlerts. If a wildfire does occur and there is the need to evacuate, you will receive an alert from Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA). You do not need to sign up to receive these alerts by cell phone. Residents are encouraged to download the AEA app. Residents are reminded to have an emergency preparedness plan in place.

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Contact: emergencyinfo@strathcona.ca

A Fire Advisory indicates the fire danger rating has increased and there may be certain restrictions on burning. This level is a warning that a fire restriction or ban may be implemented if the situation doesn’t improve. 

A Fire Restriction results in the suspension of open burning privileges for fires that require permits and fireworks. This does not apply to outdoor recreational fire pits, charcoal briquettes, burn barrels. 

A Fire Ban means no outdoor fires are permitted. This includes using charcoal briquettes, burn barrels, private fireworks displays and outdoor recreational fire pits. The use of cooking and recreational appliances that can be turned on or off using a switch or valve (fire table, electric smoker, pellet, propane or natural gas barbecues), is permitted.