(Grande Prairie, Alta. – November 10, 2026) – A fire advisory is now in effect for the City of Grande Prairie, including annexed rural areas, as of 9 a.m. on Nov. 10 due to dry conditions.
Permitted activities (with caution):
- Backyard fire pits with screens.
- Propane and natural gas appliances (barbecues, heaters, firepits).
- Charcoal briquette barbecues.
- Wood pellet smokers and barbecues (with and without switch).
- Indoor wood fireplaces.
- Smudge fires.
Prohibited activities:
- Open burning and burn barrels (limited – case by case, permit requests may be restricted).
- Fire pits without screens (never allowed).
- Fireworks (not permitted without written authorization.
This advisory is in place to reduce the risk of preventable human-caused wildfires.
Fires can start easily and spread fast, especially with elevated wind speeds over 15 km/h, which is common in Grande Prairie. Wind can spread embers quickly, turning a controlled backyard fire into a serious wildfire in minutes.
“Dry conditions mean even a small spark can quickly turn into a serious fire,” said City of Grande Prairie Fire Chief, Mark VanWerkhoven. “Improperly discarded cigarettes are a preventable fire risk, particularly in grassy areas and along trails. We’re asking residents to be mindful of how easily fires can start and take the extra precautions needed to keep our community safe.”
Residents are reminded to take extra precautions to prevent accidental fires, including:
- No burning if wind is over 15 km/h.
- Always have a water source nearby such as a garden hose, bucket of water or fire extinguisher.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Dispose of cigarette butts safely in a proper receptacle. Never discard cigarettes on the ground, from vehicle windows or in dry vegetation.
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. Residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the guidelines to prevent the risk of wildfires.
Further information can be found at albertafirebans.ca or at cityofgp.com/firebans.