Non-urgent government operations are closed December 24 to January 1, reopening January 2. View available services during this period.
Whitecourt Forest Area - December 15, 2025
Low wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area is low. While cooler conditions reduce overall risk, wildfires can still start at any time of year when conditions are dry, windy, and snow begins to melt.
If you are burning piles this winter, monitor your surroundings, stay aware of weather conditions, and never burn more than you can safely manage. Once your project is complete, return to your burn site often to ensure it's fully extinguished.
Holiday office closures
The Whitecourt Forestry office will be closed from December 24 to January 1, re-opening January 2. We wish you and your family a safe holiday!
Safe winter burning
As of November 1, fire permits are no longer required for any burning in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Wildfires can start anytime of year when conditions are right. Alberta Forestry suggests residents and industry wait until there are at least 15 cm of snow to start any burning projects.
When burning near a community or roadway be mindful of the potential for smoke to impact the health of residents and driving conditions as smoke lingers in the air. Smoke may stay close to the ground and can travel great distances on cold days. The ideal conditions for burning are typically days with average temperatures and minimal wind.
To assist the Whitecourt Forest Area, please let us know if you plan any large scale burning. Reporting large scale burning can help prevent dispatching our firefighters to non-emergency fires. Please phone 780-778-7166 (leave a message if not answered) with the following:
- Name of landowner burning or company and representative name
- Phone number in case of emergency
- Legal land description or latitude/longitude
If you do see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473). Alberta Wildfire remains ready to respond to any new wildfire starts. Follow our safe burning practices to help prevent human-caused wildfires.
Tree cutting permits for personal use
Personal Use Forest Products Permits (PUFPP) are for small-scale personal use only (no resale) for Christmas trees, firewood or transplants. PUFPP authorize Albertans to cut and removed timber from designated Crown land only. Maps are available to help you find a suitable location. Permits can be requested online or in person at the Whitecourt Forestry office.
Cooking and warming fires
Ensure you build your fire on bare mineral soil, away from dead dry grass. Keep your fires small and never leave them unattended. If not properly extinguished, the fire can spread when the snow melts later in the day when the temperature increases, or burn deep into the soil where it can smoulder for long periods of time.
Now hiring
Applications for seasonal positions are open, with more available soon. Learn more about recruitment and apply today.
Published on December 15, 2025 10:11 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
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]