Fire Bans

FIRE ADVISORY - Effective May 3, 2026

Effective immediately, Foothills County is moving to a Fire Advisory status due to current weather conditions.

We will continue to monitor the county's fire risk status as usual and may amend it as necessary. For Class 1 (10x10x5 and under) and Class 2 (10x10x5 and over) fires, permits will be issued, but they may be revoked at any time, with little to no warning, if the situation changes in a way that justifies it. The county will continue to urge residents to abide by burning rules and regulations and to remain cautious when burning, even if there is no fire ban or restriction in effect at this time. Additionally, residents will be reminded that a fire permit is always required, that permits are free of charge, and that they may be obtained from the County website. If circumstances alter, the county may impose a Fire Ban or Restriction at any time. If a Fire Ban or Restriction is imposed, you must immediately and fully extinguish your fire; all existing permits will become void, and no new permits will be issued.

This Advisory allows for:

  • Fires that require a permit, Class 1 and Class 2. (Class 1 is for small burns, less than 10 x 10 X 5, Class 2 is for large burns, any area that is 10’ X 10’ X 5’ or larger).
  • Fireworks, with a proper permit. Permits can be obtained on the County web page.
  • Torches or Lanterns with open flame
  • Safe residential fire pits and safe campfires in campgrounds (Non-combustible unit 36 inches in diameter or less).
  • Gas or propane stoves/barbecues when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Charcoal briquettes and solid fuel barbecues should be used according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Chiminea’s (with screen covers that are located on non-combustible surfaces)
  • Internal household fireplaces
  • Wood pellet smokers
  • Incinerators (for farm and acreage use), Burning barrels (steel drum no larger than 45gallons, with screen covers that are located on a non-combustible surface)  

 This will remain in effect until further notice.

 Get more information on burning permits / fireworks permits.

If you have an emergency, call 911.

Open fires are allowed by obtaining a burning permit issued through the Online Burning Permit application.

Alberta Fire Bans

Fire permits are required for any burning in the Forest Protection Area (excluding campfires).

You can get a fire permit by contacting the Environment and Sustainable Resource Development office in:

  • Calgary 403-297-8800
  • Blairmore 403-562-3210

For information on wildfire status: Alberta Wildfire Status

Fire Permits are mandatory in Foothills County!

Burning Permits & Regulations

The burning of prohibited debris is against the law. Prohibited debris includes but is not limited to this list:

  • Tires
  • Plastics
  • Household Garbage
  • Paint and paint cans
  • Used motor oil
  • Furniture
  • Treated Products

Please only burn clean burnable debris. Other material can be disposed of at the Foothills Landfill and regular tipping fees will apply for Foothills County residents.

Thank you,

Foothills Fire

T: 403-603-3571

F: 403-254-3145