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Strathcona County rural fire permits: applications, materials and status checks
Strathcona County, Alberta, Canada
Open fires, brush piles, burn barrels, unscreened fire pits, yard-debris fires and bonfires require permits and are restricted to rural areas.
Key information
Open fires, brush piles, burn barrels, unscreened fire pits, yard-debris fires and bonfires require permits and are restricted to rural areas. Apply online, then check the Burning Status Line before every burn. A permit does not override a fire ban.
On this page
Plan your next step
| Task or feature | What to know |
|---|---|
| Landowner approval | Owner applies or gives written permission |
| Before every burn | Call/textBURN to 1-844-414-2876 |
| Large brush pile | Contact Fire Prevention above 3 x 3 x 2 m |
| Bans | No burning contrary to restrictions |
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Your options at a glance
- Apply as the landowner or with written authority
Fire permits last one year from approval.
- Check conditions each time, not just when applying
Call or textBURN to 1-844-414-2876 before every burn.
- Materials, extinguishing and costs
Permitted open/barrel material categories include brush, yard debris, cardboard and paper.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Apply as the landowner or with written authority
Fire permits last one year from approval. The applicant must be the legal landowner or have written landowner permission. Applications and status tracking are online; the county no longer issues fire permits in person.
For help, call Fire Prevention at 780-449-9651 or email fireprevention@strathcona.ca. Screened recreational fires and chimineas have different permit rules and may be used in Sherwood Park or rural hamlets only when all applicable conditions allow. This guide focuses on permit-required rural burning.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Check conditions each time, not just when applying
Call or textBURN to 1-844-414-2876 before every burn. The automated status line is available 24 hours. If burning continues for hours, check again periodically; current or forecast wind and drying can change permission.
Brush piles need at least 3 m clearance from other combustibles. A pile larger than 3-by 3-by 2 m requires contact with Fire Prevention for a site inspection. Burn barrels need a non-combustible container, smoke/draft vents and a heavy metal screen with mesh no larger than 13 mm.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Materials, extinguishing and costs
Permitted open/barrel material categories include brush, yard debris, cardboard and paper. Household waste, treated or painted wood, plastics, rubber, pesticides, carcasses, manure, rail ties and other toxic material are prohibited. A permit is not a waste-burning exemption.
Extinguish by soaking, stirring and soaking again. Recheck large piles after a couple of days because embers can remain. Illegal burning can bring a fine up to $2,000, plus response or damage costs. Immediate danger is 911; non-emergency burning complaints use 780-467-7741 with the exact address.
Sources: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Useful questions and answers
Which common rural fires need a permit?
Open fires, brush piles, burn barrels, unscreened fire pits, yard-debris fires and bonfires.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can a tenant apply without the owner’s authority?
The applicant must be the legal landowner or have written permission from that owner.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can I get a permit at a counter?
No. The county says permits are no longer issued in person; apply online or ask Fire Prevention for help.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
What number checks burning status?
Call or textBURN to 1-844-414-2876 before every burn.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Do I need to check again during a long burn?
Yes. The county asks permit holders burning for several hours to recheck because conditions can change.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
When does a brush pile need a site inspection?
Contact Fire Prevention if it exceeds 3-by 3-by 2 m.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Can a burn barrel dispose of household waste?
No. The described barrel purpose is brush, paper or cardboard, with a permit and proper construction.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Does the permit remove responsibility for fire costs?
No. The source describes fines up to $2,000 and possible firefighting or property-damage costs.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
How are non-emergency burning concerns reported?
Call 780-467-7741 and provide the exact address. Immediate danger goes to 911.
Source: Fire permits | Strathcona County
Official information and next steps
Facts checked on October 14, 2026. Seasonal conditions and available appointments can change.