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The City of Yellowknife Fire Division (YKFD), in collaboration with the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) and FireSmart NWT, is pleased to continue offering wildfire resilience initiatives to residents of Yellowknife and N’dilǫ.

As part of this initiative, free Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessments are available upon request. These assessments are conducted by YKFD staff and provide property-specific recommendations to reduce wildfire risks. The HIZ assessment thoroughly evaluates your home and surrounding property to identify vulnerabilities, while also offering homeowners personalized guidance to improve fire resilience.

New for 2025, the YKFD is launching the FireSmart Neighbourhood Recognition Program, aimed at encouraging community-wide participation in wildfire risk reduction. This program supports residents in organizing local efforts, including appointing a neighbourhood “champion” who will work closely with the YKFD to coordinate educational outreach and fire mitigation practices at the neighbourhood level.

To further support FireSmart efforts, the City is now increasing the amount of non-mixed FireSmart yard waste at the Solid Waste Facility free of charge. To qualify for waived tipping fees, residents must simply declare the load as FireSmart yard waste upon entry. This helps track program participation and ensure effective use of the service.

Please note:

  • Commercial land-clearing waste remains subject to tipping fees.
  • Tree stumps, felled trees, painted or demolition wood, soil, rocks, and similar large debris are not accepted under the free program.

Visit Solid Waste Facility website for tipping fee guidelines and services.

If you are interested in scheduling a FireSmart Home Assessment or learning how to involve your neighbourhood in the program, please contact the Yellowknife Fire Division at (867) 766-5502 or email firehalladministration@yellowknife.ca.