Checked
Strathcona County backyard fires: screens, clearances and chimineas
Strathcona County, Alberta, Canada
A screened recreational fire or compliant chiminea does not normally need a county fire permit, but construction, fuel and fire-ban rules still apply.
Key information
A screened recreational fire or compliant chiminea does not normally need a county fire permit, but construction, fuel and fire-ban rules still apply. Recreational fires must burn clean dry wood for cooking or warmth and stay at least 3 m from combustibles.
On this page
Plan your next step
| Task or feature | What to know |
|---|---|
| Screened recreational pit | No normal permit; all conditions still apply |
| Unscreened pit | Rural area and permit required |
| Chiminea | Screened openings; stable non-combustible base |
| All recreational fires | Clean dry wood; no fire-ban use |
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Your options at a glance
- Permit-free does not mean unrestricted
The county allows screened recreational fires and chimineas in Sherwood Park, rural hamlets and rural areas under its conditions.
- Chiminea placement and winter care
Both the front opening and stack need a metal screen with openings no larger than 13 mm.
- Smoke, bans and fully extinguishing
Recreational fires are prohibited during a fire ban.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Permit-free does not mean unrestricted
The county allows screened recreational fires and chimineas in Sherwood Park, rural hamlets and rural areas under its conditions. An unscreened recreational fire or fire pit instead requires a permit and is restricted to rural areas.
A recreational fire must stay within a non-combustible structure with ventilation and a heavy-gauge metal screen, maximum 13 mm mesh. Keep it at least 3 m from fences, buildings, decks, trees and other combustibles. Do not burn garbage, leaves, straw or prohibited material.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Chiminea placement and winter care
Both the front opening and stack need a metal screen with openings no larger than 13 mm. Set the chiminea on a stable level non-combustible surface, at least 3 m from combustibles. It cannot be in a gazebo, on wood or in an enclosed porch.
The city describes sand or pea-gravel insulation in the bowl to about 10 cm below the mouth. Follow the appliance instructions as well. For winter storage, the county suggests shelter and airflow underneath because freezing moisture can crack the unit.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Smoke, bans and fully extinguishing
Recreational fires are prohibited during a fire ban. Check current county advisories before use; a season or compliant fire pit is not evidence that a ban is absent. Fully put the fire out with water, stirring and more water.
The county discourages wood-burning pits on concrete driveways because they can damage the surface. Gas appliances follow manufacturer specifications. Discuss smoke concerns with a neighbour where appropriate, or call the 24-hour complaint line 780-467-7741; immediate danger is 911.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Useful questions and answers
Does a screened recreational fire need a permit?
The county table says no, where all location, construction and safety conditions are met.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can an unscreened pit be used in Sherwood Park?
The permit table restricts unscreened recreational fires to rural areas with a permit.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
How fine must the screen be?
Heavy-gauge metal mesh no larger than 13 mm.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
What clearance is required?
At least 3 m from combustible materials such as fences, buildings, decks and trees.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
What fuel is allowed in a recreational pit?
Clean dry wood only, for recreational cooking or warmth.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can yard leaves or garbage go in it?
No. Yard-debris burning is a different rural permit category; garbage and prohibited materials are not allowed.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Does a chiminea stack need screening?
Yes. Both its front opening and stack need the specified metal screening.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can a chiminea sit on a wooden deck or inside a gazebo?
No. The source excludes wood surfaces, gazebos and enclosed porches.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can a compliant fire continue during a fire ban?
No. Recreational fires are prohibited during bans.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Who handles a smoke complaint without immediate danger?
The county’s 24-hour Enforcement complaint line,780-467-7741.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Official information and next steps
Facts checked on October 14, 2026. Seasonal conditions and available appointments can change.