Posted on Wednesday, November 01, 2023
Under Lacombe County's Fire Protection bylaw, fire permits are required between March 1 and October 31.
However, even when permits aren't mandatory (November 1 - February 28), it's crucial to prioritize safety for your sake and the environment. Here's how to ensure a safe burn:
- Check the Weather: Always keep an eye on the weather forecast. Windy conditions can quickly escalate a small fire into a wildfire.
- Clear a Safe Zone: Create a safe area around your burn site, free from flammable materials like dry grass or leaves. Maintain a 10-foot clearance.
- Equipment Ready: Have a hose, water source, and tools on hand to control the fire. Never leave the fire unattended.
- NO Household Garbage: Only burn clean, dry wood or vegetation. NEVER burn household garbage, plastics, or chemicals. See our Fire Permits Section of the website for more information.
- Keep it Small: Stick to a manageable fire size. Large, uncontrolled fires are dangerous.
- Responsible Supervision: An adult should supervise the fire at all times, and everyone involved should know how to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
- Respect Neighbours: Be mindful of your neighbours. Smoke and embers can disrupt their peace.
Although Fire Permits are not required between November 1 and February 28 (or February 29, if it's a leap year), the public is reminded that:
- Smoke cannot cross any major roadways or disturb any neighbouring properties
- Wind speeds must be less than 15 kms/hour
- If a passerby calls 911, Fire Services are required to attend the scene to ensure a non-emergency.
Let's show our commitment to a safe and responsible community. Remember, even when permits aren't required, safety should always be a top priority. Spread the word and share the knowledge!