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Very High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area remains very high. While cooler temperatures, shorter days and overnight moisture are helping conditions, warm, dry and windy days still increase the risk of wildfires. As vegetation goes dormant for winter, it becomes dry material that can ignite easily. Even on cooler days, wildfires can still start and spread quickly.
Wildfire situation
RWF070 was detected on September 23. Firefighters responded quickly and this wildfire is now classified as being held at 0.21 hectares.
Since January 1, there have been 70 wildfires recorded in the area.
For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
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.
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.
Do your part to prevent wildfires
This time of year, most wildfires are human-caused. Dry grasses combined with warm, windy days mean fires can still ignite and spread quickly.
If you're out hunting, camping, or enjoying the forest, please keep fire safety top of mind (if you're in an area permitted to have a fire as per the fire restriction). Here are some reminders:
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Always soak it, stir the ashes and soak it again until cool to the touch.
- Build campfires in safe areas, away from dry grass, leaves and other flammable materials.
- If using an off-highway vehicle (OHV), stop often to clear hot spots like mufflers and undercarriages.
- Check for fire advisories, restrictions, or bans at Alberta Fire Bans before burning.
Contact info
Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]
Published on September 24, 2025 1:46 pm