A fire ban is now in effect across the entire Rocky View County as officials respond to increasingly dry and windy weather conditions, significantly elevating the risk of wildfires.
Effective immediately, all permit burning is prohibited. The county has also suspended all active fire and fireworks permits until further notice.
The ban covers a wide range of open burning activities, including the use of incinerators typically used on farms and acreages, burning barrels, recreational campfires, and any fires contained within facilities and appliances located in designated camping and recreational areas. The use of outdoor chimeneas is also prohibited under the ban.
County officials are urging residents to take the restrictions seriously to avoid potential fines or further fire risk.
There are, however, a few exceptions to the ban. The following devices and appliances remain permitted:
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Indoor household fireplaces
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Camp stoves, provided they are properly attended
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Propane or natural gas barbecues and fire pits
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Solid fuel barbecues using charcoal briquettes
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Wood pellet grills
Oil well flaring is also permitted but must be registered in advance by calling 403-264-1022.
County fire authorities continue to monitor conditions closely and will lift the ban when it is safe to do so. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed and report any signs of wildfire activity.
The Town of Cochrane has also responded with restrictions.