Whitecourt town council adopted the FireSmart Home Incentive Program at their regular meeting on Monday.
The Policies and Priorities Committee reviewed the policy on May 21, then recommended council adopt the policy.
Officials say this incentive program was designed to encourage homeowners in Whitecourt to adopt and conduct recommended FireSmart practices to mitigate wildfire risks on private property. Following the success of the program in 2022 and 2023, council approved the continuation of the program for 2024.
According to the policy, residents can receive up to $1000.00 in rebates per property for the following improvements through the FireSmart Home Incentive Program:
- Roof upgrade to Class A ignition resistant roof material – $1000.00.
- Sheath or Screen beneath deck – $500.00.
- Convert Zone 1A from mulch to rock or non-combustible – $500.00.
- Zone 1 and 2 Arborist to cut and remove conifer trees – $500.00 per tree, to a maximum of $1000.00.
- Eaves troughs cleaned and covered – $200.00.
The policy also states that applications from properties located in Blocks 13 through 16 on the map below will be prioritized for funding over applications received from property owners outside of this area.
photo provided by Town of Whitecourt Administration
Officials say application forms for the FireSmart Home Incentive Grant will be accepted until October 31, 2024.
