Department of Community Services

FireSmart Project Funding

The FireSmart program supports community fire safety by reducing the threat of wild fires. The program also supports job creation utilizing local resources and skills.

What types of projects are eligible?

Projects such as fuel reduction (reducing forest combustibles), forest stand modification (thinning or species conversion), community wildfire abatement (multi-year plans), and emergency and fire access improvements are included in the program.

Who can apply?

  • Registered non-profit organizations. (Must be in good standing at time of application. Certificate of Good Standing from Corporate Affairs must accompany application.)
  • Community associations
  • Municipal governments
  • First Nations
  • School councils

    • What is the application deadline?

    FireSmart has an annual deadline of April 15. Decisions on FireSmart funding requests are made within twelve weeks of the application deadline.

    General application criteria

    1. Registered non-profit organizations must attach a copy of a Certificate of Good Standing from Corporate Affairs.
    2. If ongoing costs will result from the project, the application must clearly demonstrate the ability of the group to cover these ongoing expenses.
    3. Yukon government loans must be in good standing (if applicable to the applicant).
    4. The project should not compete with a local private sector initiative.
    5. Consideration will be given only to expenses directly related to the project.
    6. The complete application, with all attachments, must be received by the deadline.
    7. Projects may be longer than one year in duration, however applications must be made annually for each phase of the project, and each phase will be approved in turn.

    It is anticipated that applications for funding will exceed available resources.

    Please ensure that your application clearly demonstrates how your project will meet the program's criteria and priorities.

    Funding criteria

    The following requirements are in addition to the general criteria listed above.

  • Projects should use standard wage rates and rental rates outlined on the application form.
  • Projects must be timed to ensure completion by March 1 each year.
  • On-site inspections will be performed by the Zone Protection Managers prior, during and when projects are completed in March.
  • Projects must be oriented to specific sites, and maps must be provided.
  • Equipment purchases will not be funded, however some materials may be eligible such as first aid kits, safety gloves etc.
  • Contracts must be tendered in communities where more than one equipment business/operator is capable of undertaking a portion of the project.
  • Applicants must consult with their local Wildfire Management, Zone Protection Manager. The Zone Protection Manager will provide your organization with technical information and assistance to ensure the project meets key FireSmart objectives.

    • Funding priorities

    Priority will be given to projects in communities with a high wildfire risk assessment and with greater values at risk. As well, priority will be given to projects that include long term planning or:

  • create local jobs, especially with training opportunities;
  • demonstrate community support;
  • build partnerships and cooperative relationships in communities;
  • demonstrate an ability to ensure project success; and
  • use local employment and equity (in the form of financial or in-kind donations or volunteer labour).

    • How to apply

    Zone Protection Managers can help make suggestions on how to fine-tune your application, if you submit it in advance of the deadline. With enough lead-time, the FireSmart Coordinator, working with the Zone Protection Manager may alert you to gaps or deficiencies that require attention before the deadline date.

    To reach the FireSmart Coordinator, call toll-free 1-800-661-0408 ext. 3013.
    In Whitehorse call 667-3013.

    To reach your Zone Protection Manager please call:

    Carmacks 863-5271
    Dawson City 993-5468
    Haines Junction 634-7061
    Mayo 996-2343
    Watson Lake 536-2005
    Whitehorse/Southern Lakes 456-3901

    In person: FireSmart, 2nd floor Combined Services Building, 60 Norseman Rd, Airport, Whitehorse

    By mail: FireSmart, Box 2703, Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6

    By fax: (867) 393-6266

    By email: FireSmart@gov.yk.ca

    All applicants must complete the Cover Sheet [111KB ] and sign the declaration. Be sure to submit the Cover Sheet with your completed application.