Search Lethbridge.ca

Fire Bans

Current Fire Ban Status

January 13, 2026

River Valley fire ban in effect

Effective immediately and until further notice, a fire ban is in place for all open fires in the City of Lethbridge River Valley. 

Current conditions, including warmer temperatures, strong winds and low humidity, have created a high risk for fast-moving and uncontrolled fires. Even a small spark can quickly spread in dry grass and brush. 

Residents and visitors are asked to use extra caution. Do not light any open fires and ensure smoking materials are fully extinguished and disposed of safely. 

Stay informed

To receive updates when a fire ban is issued or lifted: 

About Lethbridge fire bans

The Chief Fire Marshal may issue fire bans when hot, dry or windy conditions create a high wildfire risk. 

There are two types of fire bans in Lethbridge:

  1. River Valley Fire Ban - applies only to the River Valley and surrounding coulees. 
  2. City-wide Fire Ban - applies to the entire city, including all neighbourhoods and the River Valley. 

Fire ban restrictions overview

A River Valley Fire ban prohibits all open fires in the River Valley - including City-owned land, campgrounds and private property. This includes campfires, fire pits, charcoal BBQs and other outdoor burning in the River Valley. 

During a River Valley fire ban, fire permits may be suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued. Backyard fire pits in residential areas remain permitted as long as they comply with the Open Burning Bylaw.

Activity Restriction level
Fire permits May be restricted or suspended
Solid fuel campfires anywhere in the River Valley ❌ Not allowed
Propane/natural gas powered appliances ✅ Allowed
Safe wood campfire in backyard fire pits in residential areas ✅ Allowed
Indoor wood fire ✅ Allowed

 

A city-wide fire ban prohibits wood campfires on City land, campgrounds and private land including backyard fire pits. Fire permits will be suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued.

Activity

Restriction level
Fire permits ❌ Suspended
Safe wood campfires in a designated campground ❌ Not allowed
Safe wood campfire in backyard fire pits ❌ Not allowed
Barbeque – Charcoal briquette ❌ Not allowed
Propane/natural gas powered appliances ✅ Allowed
Indoor wood fire ✅ Allowed
Open flame oil devices ✅ Allowed

 

Backyard fire pit safety

Backyard fire pits in residential areas are allowed unless a city-wide fire ban is in effect.

Backyard fire pits must comply with all requirements outlined in the Open Burning Bylaw, including proper construction, fuel type (clean, dry firewood only), supervision and safe extinguishment. Review the Backyard Fire Safety & Open Burning Rules brochure. 

Fire bans in surrounding areas

Before starting an outdoor fire, always check this page or visit Alberta Fire Bans for current alerts and more information about fire bans in surrounding areas around Lethbridge.

Questions?

If you have any questions about Lethbridge fire bans, please contact us by email at fireprevention@lethbridge.ca or by phone at 403-320-3811.

 

Contact Us

City Hall
910 4 Avenue South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0P6

Phone: 311
or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)

 

I Want To...

Apply & Register

Pay & Buy

Find & View

Report a Problem