Slave Lake Forest Area

Slave Lake Forest Area - December 12, 2025

Winter burning

Wait until there are 15 cm of snow on the ground before taking on a burning project in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Fire permits are no longer required after November 1, but following safe winter burning practices is always important. Firefighters still respond to wildfires in the winter. If you spot a wildfire, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

Christmas tree cutting permits

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 or by phoning 780-849-7377.

Remember:

• Tree cutting is prohibited within 30 metres of a stream or river and within 100 metres of a lake
• Harvested trees must be less than 2.5 metres tall, or 8 feet
• Permits must be carried while harvesting trees
• Do not remove the tops of trees that are taller than 2.5 metres 

Wildfire situation

Since January 1, 2025 there have been 216 wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area, burning a total of 379,245 hectares. 

There are 7 active wildfires in the Slave Lake Forest Area, all of which are under control. 

See the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard for up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics and more.

Red Earth East Complex 

The Red Earth East Complex includes 5 under control wildfires, located east of Highway 88.

These large wildfires will take time to fully extinguish. At this time, there is no threat to nearby communities.