Planning a Burn? Here’s How to Get a Permit
Fire permits: It’s the law in Alberta
It's always a good time to talk about fire safety. Fire prevention starts with awareness, and simple conversations today can help prevent emergencies tomorrow.
Whether you’re clearing brush on your property or managing agricultural debris, getting a fire permit is a mandatory—and free—step that helps keep our community safe.
In Alberta, wildfire season runs from March 1 to October 31. During this time, fire permits are required for all outdoor burning within the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires.
The Cost of Burning Without a Permit
Burning without a fire permit during wildfire season can result in heavy fines, and you could be held liable for the costs of suppressing a fire if it escapes.
Why You Need a Permit
A fire permit isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a communication tool. When you have a permit, Alberta Wildfire knows exactly where controlled burning is happening. This prevents local firefighters from being dispatched to investigate "smoke sightings" that are actually authorized burns, keeping them available for real emergencies.
How to Get Your Permit
You have two main ways to secure your permit. Both are free of charge.
Request Online (Fastest)
- The provincial government has streamlined the process through the Alberta Fire Permits portal: Visit Fire Permit Portal
- What you’ll need: Your legal land description and details about what you plan to burn
Request by Phone
If you prefer to speak with a local officer or have specific questions about your burn site, you can call your local Forestry Area office:
- Slave Lake Office: 780-849-7377
- Lac La Biche Office: 780-623-5388
- Wabasca Office: 780-891-3860
The MD spans both the Lac La Biche and Slave Lake Forest Protection Areas. Land south of the Athabasca River falls under the Lac La Biche Forest Protection Area, while land to the north is part of the Slave Lake Forest Protection Area.
Before You Light the Match
Always check the current fire danger level and active bans before burning. Conditions can change rapidly in the boreal forest.
- Check Fire Bans: Visit Alberta Fire Bans ( albertafirebans.ca )
- Download the App: The Alberta Wildfire App provides real-time updates on fire hazards and locations in the Slave Lake and Lac La Biche Forest Areas
- To report a wildfire, always call 310-FIRE (3473)
Stay safe and informed during critical events.
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RCMP Reports
Read periodic reports on crime stats and communty safety from the Slave Lake RCMP detachment.
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