Fire Bans

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When the fire hazard is extreme, the City of Edmonton may issue a fire ban or restriction to protect life and property.

Fire bans and restrictions can prohibit any of these regulated activities:

Open burning
Fireworks
Fire pits and cooking stoves in parks
Backyard fire pits

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services wants to work with Edmontonians to keep everyone safe. That's why, during a fire ban or restriction, Fire Rescue Services will emphasize compliance over enforcement. However, failure to comply could result in a fine and fighting fees if the actions result in a fire or are deemed dangerous to the life, property or environment of Edmonton.

Bans Versus Restrictions

What's The Difference?

Fire restrictions prohibit the use of fireworks and open burning. During a restriction, you can still use your backyard fire pits provided they meet the Community Standards Bylaws. You may also use your BBQs and cooking stoves.

A complete fire ban prohibits the use of fireworks and any open burning. If conditions require, a ban may also restrict the use of all types of fire pits and cooking stoves in parks, as well as BBQs and backyard smokers that use solid fuels (wood, charcoal, pellets, briquettes). Backyard fire pits will only be banned when the fire hazard is extreme throughout Edmonton. Gas and propane fuelled BBQs are still permitted but must be located and supervised properly.

Edmonton's Community Standards Bylaw has no leeway on outdoor fire pits during a fire ban; all outdoor fire pits are prohibited, including gas and propane fuelled devices.

Open Burning

Open burning includes any controlled burns that are subject to conditions set in an open burning fire permit. For more information, see Part IV of the Community Standards Bylaw.

Propane BBQs and Stoves

Did you know that you can use a propane BBQ or stove during a fire ban?

They are permitted because they are metal, contained and don't generate smoke or embers. Propane BBQs are also permitted in City parks during fire bans.

Solid Fuel BBQs, Stoves and Backyard Smokers

Solid fuel BBQs, stoves and backyard smokers (using wood chips, charcoal, pellets or briquettes) are not permitted because they produce embers and smoke. These embers, combined with dry and windy conditions can be exceptionally dangerous.

When Do I Need a Permit?

You need a permit to discharge fireworks within the City of Edmonton. You also need a permit to do any kind of open burning. Call 780-496-3628 or 311 to find out how to obtain a permit.

Remember, no permits are required for backyard fire pits that meet the Community Standards Bylaw , cooking stoves, fireplaces or BBQs.

How to Report Non-compliance

We encourage the public to politely communicate the non-compliance to the individual, as most of these instances occur because of a lack of awareness.

Call 911 if the individual continues the behaviour.

How Fire Hazards are Measured

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services uses a tool called the Fire Weather Index System to measure and forecast fire hazard conditions in Edmonton. It is based on weather data and takes into account everything from temperature and wind conditions to relative humidity and moisture levels in the ground.

Contact Us

To find out how to obtain a fire permit.

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside of Edmonton: 780-496-3628