The City of Lethbridge has issued a River Valley fire ban covering all open fires in the River Valley and surrounding coulees in Lethbridge, Alberta. The ban took effect on April 29, 2026, and remains in place until further notice.
The Chief Fire Marshal issued the ban after warmer temperatures and low humidity created a high risk of fast-moving and uncontrolled fires, with even a small spark able to spread quickly through dry grass and brush. Residents and visitors are asked to use extra caution, avoid lighting any open fires, and make sure smoking materials are fully extinguished and disposed of safely.
The City has two types of fire bans: a River Valley Fire Ban, which applies only to the River Valley and surrounding coulees, and a City-wide Fire Ban, which applies to the entire city. Because the current ban is the River Valley type, backyard fire pits in residential areas outside the River Valley remain permitted, provided they comply with the Open Burning Bylaw – including proper construction, the use of clean, dry firewood, supervision, and safe extinguishment.
Residents and visitors with questions can contact the City by calling 311, by emailing [email protected], or by phoning 403-320-3811. The City also encourages residents to subscribe to AlbertaFireBans.ca alerts and to City of Lethbridge Public Service Announcements to be notified when fire bans are issued or lifted.
