Lethbridge County is asking everyone conducting controlled burns to be cautious and follow all regulations. (Photo: Lethbridge County)

By David Opinko

Control your controlled burns, urges Lethbridge County

Apr 10, 2025 | 1:32 PM

Anyone who is planning to conduct burning is asked to do so with caution.

Lethbridge County says its regional fire departments have responded to controlled burns that have gotten out of control already this spring. They say that is of particular concern as the season brings warmer, drier conditions.

The municipality is reminding residents, farmers and landowners of the “critical importance” of abiding by Lethbridge County’s Fire Bylaw and following safe practices when conducting controlled burns.

A controlled burn is any open burning not done in an incinerator or recreational fire pit. You must obtain a fire permit to ensure it is being conducted safely.

They should always be done during the daytime and away from roads.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

2h ago

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

Those planning to conduct a controlled burn are advised to let their neighbours know in advance as it will help to reduce unnecessary 911 calls.

Untreated wood and natural yard waste (leaves, branches, grass and weeds) are the only materials that can be burned. Lethbridge County has a grain bag and silage plastic roller that can be lent at no cost. Plastic can be recycled at the Iron Springs transfer station.

The County’s Fire Bylaw contains the following regulations:

• Check weather conditions beforehand. No burning in wind speeds above 25km/hr or if there is an active Fire Restriction or Fire Ban. Consider rescheduling your burn on warmer days, especially during dry periods.
• Report your burn to Lethbridge Dispatch thirty minutes prior. The phone number is on your permit. This can help avoid unnecessary dispatch of fire resources if your burn is reported to 911.
• Keep your cell phone on hand with the volume on for the duration of the burn. If Dispatch cannot get ahold of you during this time, you may be responsible for costs associated with a fire department response to your property.
• Never leave your burn unattended, at any time, for any reason.
• Have an adequate water supply close by.
• When your burn is complete, soak, stir and soak again as many times as necessary to ensure its fully extinguished. Check for signs of smoke or smoldering in the days following your burn, especially on windy days. Embers can easily reignite in the wind.

Failure to comply with burning regulations can result in fines.

For questions or assistance with permits or safe burning practices, contact Lethbridge County Emergency Services at 403.328.5525 or hwright@lethcounty.ca.

Lethbridge County currently has a fire advisory, while in the City of Lethbridge, there is a full fire ban for the River Valley. You can stay up to date on fire prohibitions on AlbertaFireBans.ca

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the Lethbridge News Now newsletter here. You can also download the Lethbridge News Now mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.