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Whitecourt Forest Area - November 28, 2025
Low wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area is low. Even in cooler conditions wildfires can still start. Be cautious while working or recreating in the forest area and always extinguish your campfire.
Safe winter burning
As of November 1, fire permits are no longer required for any burning in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Wildfires can start anytime of year when conditions are right. Due to current conditions Alberta Wildfire suggests residents and industry wait until there are at least 15 cm of snow to start any burning projects.
When burning near a community or roadway be mindful of the potential for smoke to impact the health of residents and driving conditions as smoke lingers in the air. Smoke may stay close to the ground and can travel great distances on cold days. The ideal conditions for burning are typically days with average temperatures and minimal wind.
To assist the Whitecourt Forest Area, please let us know if you plan any large scale burning. Reporting large scale burning can help prevent dispatching our firefighters to non-emergency fires. Please phone 780-778-7166 (leave a message if not answered) with the following:
- Name of landowner burning or company and representative name
- Phone number in case of emergency
- Legal land description or latitude/longitude
If you do see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473). Alberta Wildfire remains ready to respond to any new wildfire starts. Follow our safe burning practices to help prevent human-caused wildfires.
Tree cutting permits for personal use
Personal Use Forest Products Permits (PUFPP) are for small-scale personal use only (no resale) for Christmas trees, firewood or transplants. PUFPP authorize Albertans to cut and removed timber from designated Crown land only. Maps are available to help you find a suitable location. Permits can be requested online or in person at the Whitecourt Forestry office.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 68 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area that have burned 2,804 ha. Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
Cooking and warming fires
Hunting season is underway, always ensure your campfires are made and extinguished safely:
- Build campfires in safe areas, clear of grass, twigs and leaves.
- Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
- Extinguish your campfire before going to bed or leaving the site. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
- A fire is out only when no heat remains in the ashes.
Now hiring wildland firefighters
Applications are open until November 30 for crew members for the 2026 wildfire season. Other positions are available for crew leaders on unit, helitack, and hoist crews. Learn more about recruitment and apply today.
Published on November 28, 2025 1:13 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
Tree cutting permits are required to cut firewood and Christmas trees on public land. In Alberta they are free and available online.
A surprising number of wildfires start in the winter. Remember to follow safe burning practices, even after wildfire season ends.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]