(Grande Prairie, Alta. – August 14, 2025) – The City of Grande Prairie fire restriction has been downgraded to a fire advisory for all areas of the city, including annexed rural areas, as of 1 p.m. on August 14, 2025 due to improved, but still dry conditions. 

Permitted activities (with caution):

• Residential firepits.
• 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.

Residents choosing to burn within allowed activities must take extra precautions, 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. 

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.

“Even fires in screened backyard fire pits can be dangerous when wind picks up,” said City of Grande Prairie Fire Marshal Chris Renyk. “Wind over 15 km/h can send embers flying into nearby yards or dry grass, starting fires before anyone even notices. Always check the wind before you burn, and don’t light anything if it’s too breezy.”

Further information can be found at albertafirebans.ca or at cityofgp.com/firebans.