The open-air burning ban for Wrenford has been lifted as of today, May 19, 2025. Residents can now dispose of yard waste and other eligible materials through open burning, provided they follow the rules in the open-air burning by-law.
The ban was put in place earlier this spring when dry weather and low humidity pushed provincial fire danger ratings into the Extreme category. City Emergency Services and Parks staff have been monitoring the fine fuel moisture content (FFMC) and initial spread index (ISI) from provincial climate services. Both metrics have now dropped below the Extreme threshold, and the local Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is back to normal levels.
Even though the ban is lifted, dry conditions still linger in parts of the city. The City asks all residents to use care when starting a fire outdoors.
- Never leave a fire unattended. Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Check the weather before you light a match. High winds can carry embers quickly.
- Do not throw cigarettes or lighters into dry grass, leaf piles, or garden beds. A single spark can start a new fire.
- Make sure your fire pit is fully extinguished before you walk away.
"We are glad to see the risk level drop, but our fire crews will stay alert throughout the rest of the season," says Deputy Fire Chief Simon Hartley. "If you see smoke that looks out of place, call 9-1-1 right away. It is better to be safe than sorry."
Residents who need a seasonal burning permit can pick one up at Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) or apply online through the City's service portal. Permits cost $25.00 and are valid from April 1 to October 31.
For more details on what you can burn, where you can burn it, and how to get a permit, visit the open-air burning and fire permits page. If you need emergency help or want to report a fire, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency fire prevention questions, contact the Wrenford Fire Rescue team.