Driveway Portable Fire Pits
Fire Advisory in effect for the City of St. Albert.
Effective July 26, 2024, until further notice, the City of St. Albert has issued a Fire Advisory due to dry, windy and increased fire conditions. Permitted fires are still allowed, but a restriction or ban may be issued if conditions worsen. We are asking that everyone do their part in reducing the risk.
Please be extra cautious when enjoying a private firepit.
• All wood burning firepits must be permitted and used in compliance with the Fire Services Bylaw.
• Wood burning firepits must always be used with a screen spark arrestor.
• Firepits must be fully extinguished before leaving unattended.
• Dispose of smoking materials (cannabis, cigarettes, cigars, matches or lighters) properly.Updates will be provided on stalbert.ca. To view a list of declared fire bans or restrictions across the province, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Driveway Fire Pit Rules
- Portable propane or wood burning fire pits are allowed on driveways every Friday and Saturday. The program has recently been extended to include Halloween and other City-approved holidays.
- Portable propane fire pits do not require a fire permit for driveway use on Friday or Saturdays or for backyard use at anytime.
- Portable wood burning fire pits do not require a permit on Fridays and Saturdays on driveways. (It does require a fire permit for backyard use at all times.)
- It is strongly recommended that residents use a propane fire pit as it does not produce smoke or sparks and it is easier to extinguish. Propane fuelled firepits do not require a fire permit whether used on driveways or in backyards. However, it is required to be used as per the manufacturer's instructions (location and use).
- Although a portable driveway wood fuelled firepit does not require a fire permit, it must still comply with the backyard wood fuelled firepit requirements including its location, construction and design, use, and prohibitions.
- For more fire pit burning information please visit St. Albert’s Fire Permit.
Fire Pit Tips
- Check to see if there are fire restriction or ban in place. Prior to burning, visit the City’s fire ban page or albertafirebans.ca.
- Do not burn on windy, dry days. Fires can easily spread out of control when it is windy and dry. If wind is gusting over 15 km/h, it is recommended to extinguish the fire.
- Choose the right wood - avoid burning overly green or damp wood. This will reduce the creation of excess smoke.
- Stack your fire pit wood to promote airflow. This will allow oxygen to move around the logs, instead of smothering them.
- Always monitor your fire pit. In a matter of minutes, a fire left alone can turn into a damaging fire.
- Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to assist in lighting your fire.
- Always have supplies nearby to put out a fire (i.e., a hose, bucket of water, or shovel and dirt).
- Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the site.
Backyard Fire Pits
Backyard fires are not permitted unless approved by the Fire Chief or their designate.
Driveway portable fire pits are allowed every Friday and Saturday, and no permit is required. Residents must follow the portable driveway fire pit rules listed below. Enjoy your driveway fire pit on City-approved holidays (no matter the day of the week)!
Related Pages
Last edited: July 26, 2024