Aug. 21, 2026: A fire restriction is now in effect across the County of Stettler as hot, dry conditions continue and no significant rain is forecast.

The restriction began at 8 a.m. Friday and will remain in place until further notice.

The county will not issue new permits for open burning while the restriction is active. Burn barrels are not permitted and wood fires are prohibited on public land.

The measure is a restriction, not a complete fire ban. Some contained fires and approved appliances remain allowed under the county notice.

Residents may use cooking and heating appliances fuelled by propane, natural gas, charcoal briquettes or wood pellets.

Residential fire pits and safe wood campfires are also permitted when they are contained by non-combustible material and covered by a metal mesh screen with openings no larger than 13 millimetres.

The notice also allows operational fires inside industrial facilities, catalytic or infrared-style heaters and open-flame oil devices such as tiki torches.

Anyone using an allowed fire remains responsible for keeping it under control and making sure it is fully extinguished.

The county is asking residents to bury previously burned brush or debris piles and cover them with soil after burning is complete. The step is intended to prevent buried heat from starting the material again.

Farm machinery and off-highway vehicles can also create sparks or collect dry debris around hot components.

Operators are being asked to inspect equipment often, clear debris from hot spots and make sure mufflers and spark arrestors are working properly.

The restriction was announced Thursday because of current ground and weather conditions, continued high temperatures and the absence of significant precipitation in the forecast.

County officials said conditions will be monitored and any change will be announced publicly.

Residents can check AlbertaFireBans.ca or contact the County of Stettler for current information before burning or travelling to a recreation area.