Rocky View County suspended burning and fireworks permits in both its east and west regions on Nov. 12 after fire officials assessed the risk as extreme. The fire advisory took effect at 9:30 a.m. and remains in place in both regions.
Highway 2 divides the county’s two fire regions, which can be placed under different restrictions as conditions change. This advisory covers both sides of the highway within the county. The City of Chestermere sets its own burning rules, so residents should check the city’s fire status for activities within city limits and the county’s status for outings or work on county land.
Within Chestermere, backyard fire pits are subject to city bylaw requirements, including a spark screen and a hose or fire extinguisher nearby.
The permit suspension puts open burning jobs such as piles of cleared trees or old fence material on hold. The county is also withholding new burn permits while the advisory is in effect. Residents who need a permit can apply once the advisory is lifted, provided a fire ban is not in place.
The advisory still allows recreational campfires in approved pits measuring no more than 24 inches across. At designated campgrounds and recreation areas, fires may also be lit in approved facilities or appliances. Indoor fireplaces, chimineas and fire pits fuelled by propane or natural gas remain permitted, along with wood pellet grills, barbecues that use charcoal briquettes or gas, and camp stoves that are kept under supervision.
On farms and acreages, incinerators can still be used if they meet county standards. Burning barrels that meet those standards are also allowed. Oil well operators must register any flaring with central fire dispatch at 403-264-1022.
Before lighting an open fire pit, residents are urged to wet the ground around it thoroughly. Someone should stay with the fire the entire time it is burning. When it is time to put it out, pour water over the fire, stir the ashes to expose buried embers and add more water to extinguish any remaining hot spots.
The county has set no end date for the advisory and can impose a full fire ban if conditions worsen. Under a full ban, recreational campfires, burning barrels and farm or acreage incinerators would also be prohibited. The county’s fire information line, 403-520-6310, provides updates on advisories and bans. Residents can also sign up for the county’s Safe & Sound notification service.