Landfill fire west of Edmonton will continue to burn ‘for some time’
Posted November 12, 2025 3:23 pm.
Last Updated November 12, 2025 5:11 pm.
The fire at the GFL landfill in Parkland County, west of Edmonton, is still burning three days later – and it’s anticipated to continue “for some time.”
The landfill has been ordered to suspend all regular operations and remain closed until the fire is managed, and there’s no longer a risk.
Parkland County says firefighting efforts by specialist industrial firefighting contractors are continuing “around the clock.”
“A large volume water supply has been established on site, and soil and heavy equipment is being used to smother the fire and reduce smoke spread as much as possible,” the county said in a statement Wednesday.
Parkland County says it is working with site owners GFL Waste Management to minimize impacts to health and the environment. The county says efforts are being made to minimize smoke spread.
Air quality health monitoring is being carried out by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas.
“Residents concerned about smoke in their area, or those with underlying health concerns, are encouraged to take appropriate steps to minimize exposure,” according to the county.
The City of Edmonton added, “Due to shifting wind directions, smoke and the odour of smoke can still be very strong in surrounding communities as fire mitigation efforts continue.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“Due to the nature of the materials involved, determining a definitive cause may prove challenging, however Parkland County Fire Services’ investigation team continues to gather all available information,” Parkland County said.
Firefighters responded to the landfill fire off 231 Street NW, east of Acheson, on Sunday evening. The fire began in the southwest section of the site, which contains a mix of construction and demolition waste.
Parkland County said Monday no structures on site or critical infrastructure in the area were threatened by the fire.
The fire is expected to continue to burn for some time, and the City is asking residents not to call 9-1-1 regarding it, so emergency service lines can remain clear.
