On March 18, 2026, the City of Kamloops will reopen applications for FireSmart assessments, introducing new incentives to help property owners take meaningful steps to improve wildfire resilience.

Sparks and embers from a wildfire can travel up to two kilometres ahead of the main fire front, igniting materials on or near homes and causing significant damage. FireSmart guidelines help homeowners reduce this risk by creating defensible space and addressing vulnerabilities around their properties. The goal of FireSmart is to empower residents to take practical actions that increase resilience to wildfire—both at the individual property level and across the community.

With support from a two-year, $200,000 Intact Financial Corporation Municipal Climate Resiliency Grant, the City of Kamloops is introducing a new FireSmart Home Improvement Rebate program for 2026 and 2027. This rebate complements existing incentives for vegetation removal by supporting additional home hardening improvements.

The City’s existing Community Fuel Reduction Incentive program helps residents reduce wildfire risk by offering cash incentives for removing hazardous cedar and juniper trees, shrubs, and hedges within 5 m of homes. The incentive covers a minimum of $150 up to a maximum of $800 per household per program year, based on the amount of vegetation removal required.

The new FireSmart Home Improvement Rebate program supports a wider range of improvements that make homes more fire resilient. Recommendations identified during a free FireSmart assessment may include upgrades to vents, gutters, fences, siding, roofing, decks, and other vulnerable features. The rebate covers 50% of eligible improvement costs up to a maximum of $1,000 per household per program year.

All owners of single-family homes or duplex (non-strata) properties within the City of Kamloops municipal boundary are eligible to apply for a FireSmart assessment. FireSmart specialists who conduct the assessments are trained members of Kamloops Fire Rescue and can provide evidence-based FireSmart recommendations tailored to each property with guidance on applicable program rebates.

The total budget for both rebate programs in 2026 is $180,000, and it will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis between March 18 and November 15. Residents are encouraged to apply early, as last year’s program was fully subscribed.

To learn more or to request a FireSmart assessment, visit Kamloops.ca/FireSmartRebates and complete the initial request form.