Controlled Burns and Grass Fires

Sometimes you will need to burn grass, bush piles or stubble. Please be sure you are well-prepared and that you have fire guards in place. These "controlled burns" should also be reported to avoid dispatching firefighters unnecessarily.

Report a controlled burn anywhere in the province.

Call 1-866-404-4911.

The number is answered 24/7 – 365 days.

Questions you will be asked:

• What is your land location?
• What is your RM number?
• Who is your Fire Service Provider?
• What are the location details?
• What are you burning?
• How long will your burn last?
• Your name and phone number.

You will be asked to call back once the burn has been completed.

If you plan to burn in or within 4.5 kilometres of the provincial forest during the wildfire season (April 1 to October 31), you may also need a burn notification number. These are available from your local SPSA Protection Area Office.

Grass Fires

Grass fires can start quickly, spread rapidly and burn very hot, making them especially dangerous.

If you see a grass fire, report it immediately by dialling 9-1-1. This will help local firefighters get to the scene as quickly as possible.

Help protect your home by:

• Disposing of cigarettes and matches correctly. Do not throw them out of a vehicle.
• Making fire breaks that can slow a fire's progress. They are areas that have been ploughed, mowed or even grazed. They should be around your home and other buildings.
• Keeping your lawn cut and your gardens and paths well-maintained and leaves raked up.
• Cutting the grass around your outbuildings and around tanks or other containers that may contain flammable materials.
• Not burning trash or leaves unless they are in a damp or grass-free area.
• Not parking on dry grass. A vehicle's exhaust can reach a temperature of more than 538 degrees Celsius (1000 degrees Fahrenheit). It only takes about 260 degrees Celsius (500 degrees Fahrenheit) to start a fire.
• Teaching your children not to play with fire or with matches. Fire can spread quickly putting children in danger.
• Keeping a three-metre area around the BBQ free of vegetation. Place a fine mesh screen over the grill to stop sparks. Stay with your grill and soak the ashes in water.
• Making sure you have water tanks filled for firefighting. Keep a diesel or gas powered pump on hand. An electric pump may not work if the power goes out.
• Keeping woodpiles away from your home.
• Making sure all machines have a working spark arrestor.
• Not using machines or tools that may cause sparks during dry conditions. If you must use a tool such as a grinder, wet down your working area and have a fire extinguisher handy.

MORE RESOURCES

Be Prepared for a Disaster
You may want to consider preparing yourself and your family for a disaster, including wildfires. 

Static PDF fire ban map
You may want to consider preparing yourself and your family for a disaster, including wildfires.