Fire Bans & Restrictions
Fire Advisory in effect for the City of St. Albert.
Effective April 26, 2024, until further notice, the City of St. Albert has issued a Fire Advisory due to dry, windy and increased fire conditions. Permitted fires are still allowed, but a restriction or ban may be called if conditions worsen. We are asking that everyone do their part in reducing the risk.
- Please be extra cautious when enjoying a private firepit.
- All wood burning firepits must be permitted and used in compliance with the Fire Services Bylaw.
- Wood burning firepits must always be used with a screen spark arrestor.
- Firepits must be fully extinguished before leaving unattended.
- Dispose of smoking materials (cannabis, cigarettes, cigars, matches or lighters) properly.
To view a list of declared fire bans or restrictions across the province, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Fire Bans, Restrictions and Advisories
During hot, dry weather, fire advisories, restrictions and bans can be issued by the Province or by municipalities. The City of St. Albert’s fire bans, restrictions and advisories apply to all land within St. Albert city limits. Provincial fire bans and advisories apply to all Crown Land in Alberta. Each municipality is independent and determines whether their area is at a particular risk for fire. Fire advisories, restrictions and bans are declared and lifted by the Fire Chief or Fire Chief designate.
Further information regarding provincial fire conditions is available at ALBERTAFIREBANS.CA
Understanding Hazard Levels
- No Restrictions: Normal burning rules apply.
- Fire Advisory: Fire hazard conditions are increasing, and residents are warned that a fire restriction or ban may be coming if conditions do not improve.
- Fire Restriction: A fire restriction is declared when conditions have increased and fires can start/grow quickly.
- Fire Ban: A fire ban is declared for an extreme fire hazard conditions. No outdoor fires are allowed.
What is allowed during a Fire Advisory, Ban or Restriction?
Type of burning or cooking | No Restriction | Fire Advisory | Fire Restriction | Fire Ban |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screened wood burning backyard fire pits on private property (permit required) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖ |
| Screened wood burning fire pits on private driveways | ✔ | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Certified propane/natural gas firepits & barbecues on private property, driveways & parks | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Charcoal briquette barbecue on private property | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Charcoal briquette & smoker barbecues in public park | ✔ | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Burn barrels + incinerators in rural areas (permit required) | ✔ | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Fireworks and pyrotechnic devices | Requires permit and professional pyrotechnician license | ✖ | ✖ | |
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I be notified of a Fire advisory, ban or restriction in St. Albert?
When a fire ban or restriction is issued by St. Albert, the City will update information on the fire ban and restrictions web page, social media channels and send a news release.
How does St. Albert Fire Services determine if it's a Fire Advisory, Ban or Restriction?
St. Albert Fire Services continually monitors current and forecasted weather conditions specific to St. Albert and uses a fire weather index tool to determine if a fire advisory, restriction or ban is needed. Other factors also taken into consideration are:
- Risk of a fires getting out of control
- Availability of local and mutual aid resources
- Water level and water restrictions
- Provincial or neighboring municipalities declaration of states of emergency
What is the difference between a Fire Advisory, Ban or Restriction?
Fire Ban: A fire ban is declared for an extreme fire hazard conditions. No outdoor fires are allowed.
Fire Restriction: A fire restriction is declared when fire hazard conditions have increased to a level where fires can start and grow quickly.
Fire Advisory: Fire hazard conditions are increasing, and residents are warned that a fire restriction or ban may be coming if conditions do not improve.
No Restrictions: Normal burning rules apply.
During a fire ban can I still use propane and gas appliances?
Yes, these appliances are contained and do not create embers (sparks) that can travel.
During a fire ban why can’t I use solid fuel barbecues (wood chips or charcoal)?
These appliances produce embers that can be dangerous with dry and windy conditions.
Related Pages
Last edited: May 15, 2024