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Fire Bans

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Fire Restrictions In Effect

Effective April 16, 2021, Edmontonians are prohibited from using fireworks or conducting open burning until further notice.

There are no fire bans or restrictions in effect at this time.

Fire Ban In Effect

Effective May 31, 2019, Edmontonians are prohibited from conducting open burning and using backyard fire pits, fireworks, cooking stoves and BBQs that use fuels such as wood and briquettes until further notice.

Open burning at night

Dry weather can lead to fire hazards in City parks, fields and other green spaces. When the fire hazard is extreme, the City of Edmonton may issue a fire ban or fire restriction to protect life and property.

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

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

Edmonton Fire and 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/or fighting fees if the actions result in a fire or​ are deemed dangerous to the life, property and/or environment of Edmonton.

You can help keep Edmonton safe by checking www.albertafirebans.ca or calling 311 before you burn to find out if there is a fire ban in Edmonton.

If you see a fire call 9-1-1

Fire Bans Versus Fire Restrictions

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 fire pits and cooking stoves in parks, as well as BBQs that use solid fuels (wood and 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.

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

Solid fuel (charcoal) BBQs are not permitted because they produce embers. These embers, combined with dry and windy conditions can be exceptionally dangerous. 

Activities That Require Permits

You need a permit to purchase, possess, store and 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.

Report Restricted Activities During a Fire Ban or Restriction

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 the City Measures Fire Hazards

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.

Related Links

Fire Pits

Bylaws - F

Alberta Fire Bans

Provides information on fire bans in Edmonton, as well as across Alberta.

For More Information

To find out how to obtain a fire permit.

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

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