Non-urgent government operations are closed December 24 to January 1, reopening January 2. View available services during this period.
Fort McMurray Forest Area - December 19, 2025
Low wildfire danger
The wildfire danger for the Fort McMurray Forest Area remains low. Wildfires can still start in cool, damp conditions. Be cautious if you’re spending time outdoors and do your part to prevent wildfires.
Holiday office closures
The Fort McMurray forestry office will be closed from December 24 to January 1, re-opening January 2. Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season.
Now hiring for 2026 seasonal positions
Alberta Wildfire offers a variety of seasonal job opportunities to support the management of forest and wildfire resources. Positions range from working on the fireline to supporting wildfire prevention efforts. Applications for seasonal positions are open, with more available soon. Learn more about recruitment and apply today.
Christmas tree cutting permits for personal use
To cut your own Christmas tree from Alberta's public forests, you will require a Personal Use Forest Products Permit (PUFPP). PUFPP are free and are for small-scale personal use only (no re-sale) for Christmas trees, firewood or transplants. The PUFPP allows you to harvest up to three Christmas trees from designated areas on Crown land. Maps are available to help you find a suitable location and permits can be requested online.
Remember:
- Each tree you harvest must be less than 2.5 metres tall, or about 8 feet.
- You will need to have a digital or printed copy of your permit with you at all times when harvesting and transporting your Christmas trees (accessing email may not be possible).
- These permits are strictly for personal use, with no re-sale allowed.
- Do not cut the tops of trees that are taller than 2.5 metres to use as your tree.
Be sure to obtain your permit early while you have internet access, as you may need technical assistance or have other questions. And please be safe! Let someone know when you are heading out, where you plan to cut and what time you plan to be back. Cell service can be unreliable in the forest and snow much deeper than at home. Road conditions are variable; take extra winter clothing and emergency supplies.
Winter burning
October 31 was the last day of the 2025 wildfire season, which means fire permits are no longer required in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, but following safe burning practices is always important. Wildfires can start any time of year when conditions are dry. Wait until there is 15 cm of snow on the ground before taking on a burning project in the Forest Protection Area.
If you conduct any burning this winter, go back and ensure the fire is extinguished. A fire lit in the winter can burn under the snow all winter long and re-emerge as a wildfire in the spring. When revisiting your winter burn site, you should:
- Spread the remaining ashes and debris.
- Check the ground for any hot spots with your bare hands and feel deep below the surface for any lingering ground fire.
- Douse the area to fully extinguish the burn and stir up ashes with heavy equipment or hand tools.
- Ensure the area is cold to the touch - only then is the fire fully out.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 62 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, burning approximately 79,404 ha. To view active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area on a map, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Published on December 19, 2025 9:53 am
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
Tree cutting permits are required to cut firewood and Christmas trees on public land. In Alberta they are free and available online.
A surprising number of wildfires start in the winter. Remember to follow safe burning practices, even after wildfire season ends.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]