B.C. FireSmart program intake to open Oct. 1 with $15 million available

The 2027 FireSmart Community Funding and Supports program will begin accepting applications on Oct. 1, 2026. The Province says the intake has $15 million available for core FireSmart work and projects across British Columbia.

Local governments and First Nations can use the program for wildfire-risk-reduction projects. The eligible work includes education and training, assessments of homes and critical infrastructure, rebates, mitigation projects, community wildfire-resiliency planning, and staffing to strengthen local capacity for FireSmart initiatives.

The First Nations’ Emergency Services Society and the Union of B.C. Municipalities deliver the program in partnership with the Ministry of Forests.

The Province says the program has attracted approximately $190 million in investment since 2018, with funding reaching more than 300 communities. Those recipients include 158 First Nations and 155 local governments. In 2026, $9.3 million was approved for 47 municipalities.

Francyne Joe, executive director of the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society, said: “FireSmart funding gives communities the tools to build their own capacity and take action before a fire starts, in ways that fit their needs and priorities. The strong response we’ve seen to this intake shows how committed First Nations are to building real wildfire resilience.”

FireSmart programs are supported by 250 FireSmart co-ordinators in communities throughout British Columbia, according to the release.