Due to an overwhelming response to the launch of the program, the City is at capacity to accept applications for FireSmart assessment requests. Please be advised that while we work to complete assessments, the length of time to arrange and conduct the assessment for your property may take longer than anticipated.
This page will be updated with more information and the status of available funding once assessments have been completed.
The Community Fuel Reduction Incentive program aims to support residents in reducing the risk of structural structure fires and wildfires by removing hazardous cedar and juniper vegetation (trees, shrubs, hedges) near their homes. This initiative incentivizes homeowners to take proactive steps in fire mitigation through recommendations based on a FireSmart assessment done by a member of Kamloops Fire Rescue. The incentive will cover a minimum of $150 up to a maximum of $800 per household per program year.
Who Can Apply
Any resident who owns a single-family home or duplex (non-strata) property within the municipal boundary of the City of Kamloops can apply for a FireSmart assessment. If the assessment identifies cedar or juniper vegetation within 5 m of a structure on the property, the homeowner will be eligible to apply for the incentive.
Available Funding
The program’s overall budget is $80,000 annually between 2025–2028. Each year, funding will be distributed on a first-completed, first-serve basis between January 1 and November 1. Approved projects can received between $150 and $800. Recipients are required to provide verification of work completed to receive the incentive.
Project Eligibility
To be eligible:
- You must own a single-family home or duplex (non-strata).
- Incentive covers cedar and juniper (trees, shrubs, and hedges) removal for only what the assessor recommends (this will be documented in an assessment form and provided to the homeowner).
- Cedar and juniper vegetation must be located within 5 m of structures on the property (house, sheds, neighbour’s house).
- Vegetation that has been removed, must be fully removed from the property.
- The homeowner must complete the work by November 1 each year or earlier. If the verification form (Step 3) is not completed in time, the funding will be made available to other homeowners.
How to Participate
It's as easy as 1, 2, 3. Minus the physical work, of course!
- Step 1: FireSmart Assessment – The homeowner must request and have a free FireSmart Assessment completed.
- Step 2: Expression of Intent Form – If your property is eligible and hazards are identified in the FireSmart Assessment, complete the Expression of Intent form. Note: Homeowners will have one month to complete the work after completing this step.
- Step 3: Verification – Once vegetation is removed, submit the Verification Form to receive a final assessment and your incentive.
Questions? Please direct all inquiries to firesmart@kamloops.ca.
Community Fuel Reduction Incentive FAQS
I had a FireSmart assessment completed previously. Do I need to get another one?
FireSmart assessments conducted in 2024 and 2023 will be reviewed by the assessor to determine if an updated assessment is required. Assessments completed in 2022 or earlier will require a new FireSmart assessment.
How long do I have to complete the work?
Homeowners will have four weeks to complete the work from the time that the Expression of Intent (Step 2) form has been submitted.
The application should be submitted once you are ready to do the work or have a professional lined up, if you are not doing the work yourself. Work not completed by the identified date in this application will automatically have the unclaimed amount made available to other interested homeowners.
Can I do the removal work myself?
Yes, as a property owner you are able to complete the work yourself.
How do I qualify for the incentive?
- You must own a single-family home or duplex (non-strata).
- Be willing to have a free FireSmart assessment of your property
- Must have hazardous vegetation identified by the Assessor within 5 m of structures on the property (house, sheds, neighbour’s house).
- Complete the work by November 1 each year or earlier.
I live in Sun Rivers / Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc land, do I qualify for this incentive?
Funding is available for properties that reside within the City of Kamloops municipal boundary only.
When will I receive my incentive?
Once your property has received a final assessment and is approved, your incentive will be issued by the City of Kamloops within four weeks.
My neighbours property has cedars that are close to my home. How do I get these removed?
We encourage you to share the program information with your neighbour to help incentivize the removal of cedar and/junipers on their property.
Does the full tree or bush need to be removed?
The stump from the tree or bush does not need to be removed to be eligible for the reimbursement. The vegetation that is cut down from the identified hazard(s) does need to be removed from the property before the final assessment review is completed to be eligible for the reimbursement.
Where can I dispose of the vegetation I have removed from my property?
Please drop off your material at one of several yard waste sites. Be sure to check the location, operating hours, and the type of yard waste accepted before arriving at your selected location.
Can I bring my stumps to a yard waste site?
Tree stumps can be dropped off for free at City yard waste sites, however, must be free of dirt and rocks (rinsed off) and cut to maximum of 3 feet in length and 3 feet in diameter. Dirt and sod are not accepted at yard waste sites. Dirt and sod can be taken to City landfills, disposal fees apply.
Is there an option to participate without completing the webforms?
If you have questions or are unable to complete our webforms, please call 250-828-3472 to request a free FireSmart assessment or for additional help with the Community Fuel Reduction Incentive.
