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Very High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is now very 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. The wildfire danger will remain elevated until the area receives significant moisture.
Fire restriction
The fire restriction in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has been amended. The updated restriction applies to areas east of the Forestry Trunk Road (Highway 40/734), with some exceptions.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for a map of the impacted area.
Under this restriction:
- No new fire permits will be issued.
- All current fire permits are suspended until further notice.
- All outdoor fires must be extinguished, except safe campfires on private land.
Prohibited:
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping area
- Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires in a designated fire ring on private land, including campgrounds
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- 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
Fire advisory
The fire advisory in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has been amended. The updated advisory applies to areas west of the Forestry Trunk Road (Highway 40/734), with some exceptions, and to portions of the Municipal District of Bighorn and Mountain View County within the Forest Protection Area.
See Alberta Fire Bans for 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.
FireSmart your home
Every home in Alberta is unique and requires an appropriately unique FireSmart approach. A free Advanced FireSmart Home Assessment, conducted by a trained professional, provides property-specific recommendations and sends the information to you so you can take manageable steps to increase your home’s resilience to wildfire. To schedule an assessment, contact the Rocky Mountain House Forestry office at 403-845-8250 or email [email protected].
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 3, 2025 2:03 pm