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Lacombe County Fire department (rdnewsNOW file photo)
By rdnewsNOW Staff
Requests: free and easy

Lacombe County reminds residents that Fire Permit season begins March 1

Feb 28, 2023 | 3:34 PM

Lacombe County is reminding ratepayers that fire permit season starts on March 1 and burning without a fire permit will result in a hefty fine.

“Fire permits are free, easy to obtain, and are emailed to you directly, so you always have it with you,” said Drayton Bussiere, Lacombe County Fire Chief.

“Permits are there to ensure the safety of Lacombe County residents and their neighbours and come with a detailed list of the requirements to ensure burns can be completed safely. While most controlled burns in the County are permitted, we continue to have situations where people don’t take out a permit and can be charged under the bylaw.”

Under Lacombe County’s Fire Protection Policy, anyone found burning without a permit will be required to pay for the fire department response fees. A flat rate of $300 will be charged for responses not requiring fire suppression where a person is in contravention of the Forest and Prairie Protection Act for not having a fire permit or any other provision of the Act.

Remember to check your winter burn piles

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The county says it’s essential to burn safely throughout the year, whether it’s permit season or not.

They say many producers brush land and burn the brush during the winter months, making it crucial to check these piles as they can smoulder for many months and be rekindled by the wind. The county says if this is combined with potentially dry spring conditions, the resulting fires can be disastrous.

“Residents are encouraged to check on any controlled burns performed outside of permit season, as larger burns can smoulder through the winter and reignite as it warms up,” said Bussiere. “By participating in the fire permit process and using safe burning practices, Lacombe County residents can help us keep our County safe throughout the season.”

The County confirms fires that are started by rekindled brush piles are the property owner’s responsibility and can also be charged for the fire response. If a Fire Department responds to a fire where a permit was not issued, or if a permit was issued and the permit holder contravenes any of its conditions, the property owner will be assessed costs at the following rates:

  • Fire truck – $500 per hour
  • Water truck – $300 per hour
  • Rapid response unit/mini pumper – $300 per hour
  • Rescue truck – $300 per hour
  • Equipment other than fire apparatus – Lacombe County cost
  • Personnel other than fire department members – Lacombe County cost

County officials say fire permits are the easiest to get and are available 24/7 online through their website or the myLacombeCounty app for iPhone users. Permits can also be requested in person at the Lacombe County Office during business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or by calling the Community Services Department at 403-782-8959 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Lacombe County also provided the following Frequently Asked Questions sheet below.

Frequently Asked Questions – Fire permits (Lacombe County)

by rdnewsNOW Staff

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