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Wildfire update

Rocky Mountain House Forest Area - October 01, 2025

High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is high. Cooler weather and overnight moisture offer some relief, but dry, windy days continue to elevate the risk. As grasses and other vegetation dry out, they can ignite easily, and wildfires may still start and spread quickly, even during cooler periods.

Fire restriction

A fire restriction remains in effect for parts of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area. Please visit Alberta Fire Bans to see a map of the impacted area. 

Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands.

Prohibited:

  • Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
  • Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
  • Fireworks and exploding targets

New fire permits will not be issued, and existing permits may be restricted or suspended

Allowed:

  • Safe wood campfires in designated campgrounds or on private property, if contained within an engineered fire ring
  • Indoor wood fires in devices with a chimney and spark arrestor
  • Cooking, warming and lighting devices that are CSA-approved and used according to manufacturer’s instructions
  • Open flame oil devices
  • Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances

Fire advisory

A fire advisory remains in effect for parts of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, including the White Goat Wilderness Area, Siffleur Wilderness Area and those portions of the Municipal District of Bighorn and Mountain View County that fall within the Forest Protection Area. 

Please visit Alberta Fire Bans to see a map of the impacted area. 

Under this advisory: 

  • Existing fire permits are valid, but extension requests may not be granted.  
  • New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.

Safe campfires are allowed under the current fire advisory.

Wildfire situation 

There are no active wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area. 

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard

Firewood permits

A Personal Use Forest Products Permits (PUFPP) is required to collect firewood within the Forest Protection Area. This permit allows you to harvest a limited amount of wood for personal use. Maps are available to help you find a suitable location. Permits can be requested online or in person at the Rocky Mountain House forestry office

Hunting season

Hunting season is underway in the foothills and mountains. Campfires are often part of the experience, but they must be managed safely:

  • Before heading out, check Alberta Fire Bans to see if you are allowed to have a campfire at your intended location.
  • Build campfires in safe areas, clear of dry grass and overhanging branches.
  • Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
  • Fully extinguish your campfire before going to bed or leaving the site. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
  • A fire is out only when no heat remains in the ashes. 

Contact info

Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]

Published on October 1, 2025 3:24 pm