County of Lethbridge

Fire Ban

Effective immediately, Lethbridge County has re-issued a Fire Ban due to an elevated wildfire risk throughout the region. While we did receive a fair amount of moisture last weekend, the Fire Weather Index indicates that the recent rainfall has not had a lasting impact on moisture levels in the air or vegetation. The hot, dry conditions we have experienced this week have contributed to this heightened wildfire risk.

Under the Fire Ban, all burning is prohibited.

This includes:

• Recreational campfires
• Burning barrels and incinerators
• Charcoal briquette barbecues
• Any other open flame (i.e. burn pits, yard waste burning)
• Fireworks

Still permitted are:

• Gas or propane heaters, stoves and barbecues that are CSA approved or UL certified
• Wood pellet grills
• Gas or propane firepits/rings that are CSA approved or UL certified

Fines apply for burning during a Fire Ban. To report a fire, call 911 immediately.

Lethbridge County evaluates several factors before issuing a Fire Ban, including weather forecasts, moisture levels in vegetation, fire spread models, and consultation with regional fire departments. Although crops may still be green, dry ditches and coulees pose a significant wildfire risk.

“The current wildfire situation we’re seeing in central Alberta is a stark reminder of how quickly wildfires can impact entire communities,” says Heath Wright, Director of Emergency Services. “Wildfires don’t respect municipal boundaries—here in our region, they can move rapidly through dry grass, coulees and ditches, putting people, property, and livestock at risk. This Fire Ban is in place to protect not only Lethbridge County, but our neighbours as well. We’re asking everyone to take it seriously, because we all share the responsibility of keeping our communities safe.”

Additional Fire Safety Reminders:

• Burning garbage, rubber, plastic and any item other than untreated wood or yard debris (leaves, branches, weeds) is never permitted. All of these items can be disposed of at the City of Lethbridge Waste and Recycling Centre (must obtain an access card from the County first) or any of the transfer stations within the County (no card needed).
• Discard smoking materials properly—never toss them into planters, ditches, or dry grass. Ensure they are fully extinguished.
• Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) and equipment can start fires. Check regularly for debris and ensure mufflers and spark arrestors are in good condition.

Thank you to residents, businesses, farms and visitors for their cooperation in keeping the region safe from wildfires.