Whitecourt Forest Area

Whitecourt Forest Area - June 01, 2026

Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, 2026 there have been 22 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 133 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

Municipal wildfire reporting 

Sharing timely information about active wildfires with Albertans is an important part of the Alberta government's approach to wildfire safety. That’s why we’ve enabled municipalities to report wildfires occurring within their borders to have them included on the Alberta Wildfire dashboard and Alberta Wildfire Status app. The blue flame icon indicates a municipal fire. Read the map legend to understand the different flame icons.

 Alberta Wildfire is also introducing response type reporting to explain how a wildfire is being managed. Wildfires within Alberta Wildfire’s jurisdiction will be assigned one of three response types:

• Full response: Immediate and aggressive suppression action is taken.
• Modified response: Some suppression action is used to contain a wildfire within a pre-determined boundary. 
• Monitored response: The wildfire is observed and assessed.

Click on one of the flame icons on the wildfire map to find the response type information.

Join Alberta Forestry at a nearby event 

Join Alberta Forestry to learn about wildfire prevention, operations and FireSmart recommendations. 

• Party in the Park - Join us at Festival Park in Whitecourt on June 19 & 20

Seeking your input 

Forest area updates are an important way we share the latest information with Albertans. We’ve developed a short survey to determine if the updates are meeting your needs. Share your thoughts today.

FireSmart your home, farm and acreage

Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow.

Flames aren’t the only threat. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire.

Visit FireSmart Alberta for information on how to get started. 

Get your free fire permit

A fire permit is required for any burning within the Forest Protection Area (FPA), except for campfires. Permits are required during wildfire season, from March 1 to October 31. Fire permits are free and can be requested online or by calling 780-778-7166. As a reminder, if the wind is gusting over 15 km/h or increases beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.