A fire ban has been issued for Lethbridge County. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge County issues fire ban

May 29, 2025 | 8:45 AM

Residents of Lethbridge County are advised of new restrictions on burning.

The County has enacted a fire ban, effective immediately.

They say the recently hot, dry and windy conditions have elevated the wildfire risk in the region to extreme.

“Wildfires don’t respect municipal boundaries—here in our region, they can move rapidly through dry grass, coulees and ditches, putting people, property and livestock at risk,” says Heath Wright, Director of Emergency Services. “This Fire Ban is in place to protect not only Lethbridge County, but our neighbours as well. We’re asking everyone to take it seriously, because we all share the responsibility of keeping our communities safe.”

Under the fire ban, all burning is prohibited, including:

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• Recreational campfires
• Burning barrels and incinerators
• Charcoal briquette barbecues
• Any other open flame (i.e. burn pits, yard waste burning)
• Fireworks

The public can still use the following items:

• Gas or propane heaters, stoves and barbecues that are CSA approved or UL certified
• Wood pellet grills
• Gas or propane firepits/rings that are CSA approved or UL certified

Lethbridge County issues the following fire safety reminders:

• Take burnable yard debris to any transfer station at no charge
  • Coaldale, Nobleford, Picture Butte accept smaller loads
  • Iron Springs accepts larger loads
  • The Lethbridge Waste and Recycling Centre accepts yard waste for County residents, please call 403.328.5525 or visit our Lethbridge office (#100, 905 4 Ave S.) to obtain an access card for $10.00.
• Discard smoking materials properly—never toss them into planters, ditches or dry grass,. Ensure they are fully extinguished and never discard outside a vehicle.
• Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) and equipment can start fires. Check regularly for debris and ensure mufflers and spark arrestors are in good condition.

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