Jasper recovery

Jasper National Park

Parks Canada is committed to Jasper’s recovery from the 2024 wildfire. Find clear, accurate information on rebuilding and how Parks Canada is supporting the process. This site is here to guide you every step of the way. Updates are ongoing as recovery progresses.

For information on post-wildfire recovery in park recreation areas including trails, day-use areas and campgrounds, consult our park recovery updates.

The Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre

The Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre (JRCC), led by Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper, is focused on restoring services, supporting residents and rebuilding infrastructure to support recovery in Jasper after the 2024 Jasper wildfire. The JRCC currently has multiple working groups dedicated to debris management, rebuilding, interim housing, economic recovery and social recovery.

The JRCC was established on August 22, 2024 to ensure continued collaboration and progress as the community moves forward. Significant milestones have been achieved by working together.

2026 support to residents and rebuild workforce: Accommodation options

Wapiti Winter Campground contractor camping 2025-2026

Wapiti Winter Campground contractor camping 2025-2026

From October 1, 2025 to June 2026, campsites at Wapiti Campground will be available to contractors involved in rebuild-related construction activities.

Wapiti Winter Campground Loop AA will remain open to the public. Information on campgrounds in Jasper National Park is available on the tent and RV campsite website.

The area in Wapiti Campground will include these amenities:

  • Electrical RV sites
  • Fire pits and firewood
  • Washrooms with potable water
  • Shower building nearby
  • Maximum occupancy per site: 4 adults
  • Daily fees [Electrical services, with fire pit]
  • Dump station available in the Jasper townsite Industrial Park

Application details

Applications are open. Contractors should apply at least five business days in advance of the arrival date to allow for applications to be processed. Applications are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis.

*There are no limits on length of stay for this program.

All Parks Canada regulations apply: National Park Regulations - Jasper National Park 

The following information will be collected:

  • Contractor applicant name, address, company name and contact information
  • Address of where the contractor is conducting rebuilding work in Jasper. A signed contractor agreement/business licence will also be required prior to confirming your reservation. 
Apply
NEW Kerkeslin contractor camp

Kerkeslin contractor camp

Kerkeslin contractor camp is located 35 km south of Jasper on 93N (Icefields Parkway). This year-round work camp is available to contractors involved in rebuild-related construction activities. The camp is only available to contractors and will remain closed to the public.

Kerkeslin contractor camp details:

  • Sixteen (16) sites are available
  • Only hard sided skid mounted trailer units will be permitted
  • Each site will accommodate a 3.7 × 18.3 m (12 × 60 ft) self-contained work-camp style trailer, with adequate spacing provided between neighbouring units. Larger trailers will not be permitted
  • The overall dimensions of each site are approximately 8 m × 22 m (26 ft × 72 ft)
  • Contractors are required to accommodate workers in self-contained trailers
  • Up to four parking spots per trailer will be provided
  • Power, water and sanitary are not provided, and are the responsibility of the contractor, no additional space will be provided for these services
  • Contractors are responsible for all cost associated with delivery, operation and utility provision for trailers, including snow removal within the camp
  • Garbage and recycling pickup will be provided by Parks Canada
  • Construction waste is not permitted
  • The site is unserviced; there are no washroom facilities or fire pits
  • Snow will be cleared by Parks Canada to the entry gate of the fenced area
  • Daily or monthly fees applies (can be pro-rated for partial months). Unserviced, no showers or fire pit.
  • The are no limits on length of stay.

Application details

Application is open and will be reviewed in the order they are received. Contractors should apply at least four (4) weeks in advance of arrival date to allow for applications to be processed.

All Parks Canada regulations apply: National Park Regulations - Jasper National Park 

*There are no limits on length of stay for this program.

The following information will be collected:

  • Contractor applicant name, company name and contact information
  • Address of where the contractor is conducting rebuilding work in Jasper. A signed contractor agreement/business licence will also be required prior to confirming your reservation. 
Apply
2026 resident and seasonal staff camping - Applications will be available soon

2026 resident and seasonal staff camping - Applications will be available soon

From May 6 to October 12, 2026, Parks Canada has set aside 51 campsites at Whistlers Campground and 20 campsites at Sleepy Hollow to provide long-term camping for residents and seasonal staff employed by businesses affected by the 2024 Jasper Wildfire. Campsite allocation will be determined by the Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre using an interim housing priority matrix.

Jasper resident and seasonal staff camping program
Campgrounds Services Occupancy per site
Whistlers 20 sites with power, water, sewer and showers. No fire pits Max 4 people
Whistlers 31 sites with power and showers. No fire pits Max 4 people
Sleepy Hollow 20 sites with power. No showers and no fire pits Max 4 people

All Parks Canada regulations apply: National Park Regulations - Jasper National Park 

2026 Wabasso Campground contractor camping - Applications will be available soon

2026 Wabasso Campground contractor camping - Applications will be available soon

Wabasso Campground will reopen in June 2026 once the ground has thawed and water service is available (exact date to be confirmed). From June to October 12, 2026, campsites at Wabasso Campground will be available to contractors involved in rebuild-related construction activities. The campground is only available to contractors and will remain closed to the public until further notice. Information on campgrounds in Jasper National Park is available on the tent and RV campsite website.

The areas of the campground reopening for contractors will not have potable water and have limited amenities including:

  • Firewood
  • Dump station
  • Washrooms with non-potable water

Application details

Contractors should apply at least five business days in advance of arrival date to allow for applications to be processed.

Applications are evaluated on a first-come first-serve basis in a phased approach as clean up and preparation is complete.

There are no limits on length of stay for this program.

Rebuilding Jasper - Contractor Camping Program
Campground Sites Occupancy per site
Wabasso Campground 51 sites – electrical only Maximum occupancy per site: 4 adults
79 sites – unserviced Maximum occupancy per site: 4 adults

The following information will be collected:

  • Contractor applicant name, company name and contact information
  • Camping unit information and vehicle information
  • Address of where the contractor is conducting rebuilding work in Jasper. A signed contractor agreement/business licence will also be required prior to confirming your reservation.

All Parks Canada regulations apply: National Park Regulations - Jasper National Park 

Temporary uses in the Town of Jasper - Interim policy

Parks Canada has introduced a Temporary Use Policy , providing additional flexibility to continue to help residents and businesses recover from wildfire impacts.

Highlights include:

  • Permitting the use of RVs for residential purposes. Up to two RVs per leasehold can be located on lots in residential, commercial, and institutional zones without a permit. RV generator use will be limited to specific hours to minimize disruptions.
  • Supporting temporary work camps. Applications will be reviewed case-by-case in commercial, industrial, and select residential areas.
  • Guiding the use of quonsets and shipping containers for storage. Permits may be required depending on size or materials stored.
  • Allowing for storage of construction materials on all residential areas without a permit with lessee permission.

No temporary uses shall be permitted on lots requiring demolition and debris removal until a Parks Canada Certificate of Completion has been issued.

Government of Canada announcements

Interim housing

Interim housing

Parks Canada is supporting interim housing in multiple ways, including making 4.25 hectares of land available and procuring a range of interim housing units.

The site servicing of the parcels were completed November 18, 2024, and December 6, 2024. Interim housing units for Jasper started arriving on February 11, 2025, and the first wave of Jasperites moved into units at the end of February. Parks Canada is also providing and preparing Marmot Meadows, adjacent to Whistlers Campground, for interim housing units.

Parks Canada is in the process of securing higher-density interim housing solutions for the community and Parks Canada employees.

Parks Canada is providing:

  • 4.25 hectares of land in town and land at Marmot Meadows and Wabasso Campgrounds.
  • 162 trailers (single, double and triple units), slated primarily for within the Jasper townsite and Marmot Meadows depending on space constraints within town.
  • 120 single dorm-style units at Marmot Meadows, suitable for singles or couples, with shared kitchen and laundry spaces.
  • 24 prefabricated units.
Interim housing unit with others in the background.
Lot GA (March 2025)
Interim housing units with a fire-damaged forest in the background.
Marmot Meadows (April 2025)
 

In addition to these interim housing units, 71 seasonal campsites are reserved for resident interim housing and 31 for Jasper businesses for their staff in 2025.

Rebuilding Jasper

Rebuilding Jasper

In October 2024, the policies that apply to development in Jasper were updated using the following guiding principles: make rebuilding easier, rebuild with fire in mind, increase housing options, climate resilience, and sustainability. A summary of changes is included in the Rebuilding Guide which is now available.

Parks Canada employee and resident in an office reviewing notes with a map behind.
Resident receives a reconstruction guide from a Parks Canada employee who is pointing at a wall map.
 

Planners from Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper are ready to meet with you to answer questions about your building design. Parks Canada is and will continue to receive rebuild applications. Together with the Municipality, we are looking at ways to streamline the application process.

The Jasper Builders Guide (Published March 2025) is a comprehensive resource designed to help builders, designers, and contractors navigate the rebuilding process in Jasper. The guide covers design standards, permits, fees, operational requirements, servicing standards and additional resources to support your project.

Key rebuild highlights

Parks Canada, in close collaboration with the Municipality of Jasper, is working hard to make rebuilding easier. Together, we’ve reviewed the permitting and development process from start to finish, leading to changes like reduced compliance deposit requirements and fewer permitting steps. A summary of improvements will be updated here more changes are made. Visit Parks Canada's Jasper development webpage for detailed requirements. For help navigating any aspect of the rebuild process please feel free to book a drop in meeting with a planner or schedule a longer session to review your unique needs.

Update July 2025 – Land Use Policy and Architectural Guidelines Minor Updates

On July 25, 2025, the Jasper Field Unit Superintendent approved changes to the Jasper Land Use Policy and Architectural Guidelines as part of ongoing efforts to improve policy clarity, increase wildfire resilience, and make rebuilding easier.

What’s changed?

  • Minor edits to improve policy clarity.
  • Exempted Manufactured Homes from roof overhang requirements in the R4 District.
  • Updated building material requirements to support building with FireSmart requirements in mind:
    o providing more options for decking materials,
    o providing direction on door materials,
    o providing direction on when wood trim/detailing is suitable; and
    o clarifying that rooftop screening should be non-combustible in Town Centre developments
  • Updated variance criteria enabling greater flexibility for variances that are in the community’s interest, aligning with the newly updated National Parks of Canada Land Use Planning Regulations Guidelines.
  • Reduced side setbacks in the Cabin Creek West Multi-Unit Dwelling District (CCWc) from 3.5m to 1.2m for interior lots.
  • Allowing front-back two-unit dwelling configurations in the Cabin Creek West One-Unit Dwelling District (CCWa) and the Cabin Creek West Town-Unit Dwelling District (CCWb).
  • Updated policies for secondary suites to address discrepancies between the LUP and Building Code to streamline processes.
Update May 2025 – Fast-track variances for like-for-like wildfire rebuilds

Parks Canada has simplified variance approval processes for the most common “like-for-like” variances inside the Jasper townsite to support of recovery after the 2024 Jasper Wildfire.

What is "like-for-like"?

In general, "like-for-like" means the new building closely matches what was there before the wildfire—similar setbacks, footprint, overall shape, height, roof form and roof pitch. Some flexibility is allowed to meet modern building codes. The interior of the structure may be different than what existed previously on-site. Final determination is made by the Development Office based on how closely the proposal reflects the original structure.

Which variances can be pre-approved when related to like-for-like rebuilds?

  1. Side and rear setbacks, building heights and site coverage
  2. Roof-pitch requirements
  3. Requests to place the primary entrance facing the side setback.

Note - Pre-approval for front setbacks is not included due to the need to verify impacts to utility easements.

Eligibility checklist

The variances listed above can be pre-approved when all of the following are true:

  • The property was damaged or destroyed in the 2024 Jasper Wildfire.
  • You are rebuilding “like-for-like”—essentially matching the previous footprint, height, roof form/pitch and setbacks. Small changes to meet today’s building code are included.

Projects that don’t meet these conditions follow the standard variance process.

How it works?

  1. Apply for a development permit by submitting a Development Permit Application form (PDF, 168 KB) and the required supporting documents (which depend on the type of development you are applying for). Detailed information on applying for permits is available here.
  2. Development Officers will review your application and work to approve the permit.
  3. No separate variance application, no variance fee and no public-notice posting are required.
Update March 2025 – Land Use Policy and Architectural Guidelines Minor Updates

On March 14, 2025, Jasper Field Unit Superintendent approved changes to the Jasper Land Use Policy and Architectural Motif to support residents in rebuilding their manufactured homes after the fire and replacing manufactured homes that have reached the end of their lifecycle. Other changes were approved to simplify and clarify some existing development regulations. The policy changes to the Compact Lot (R4) District will remain in effect until March 31, 2030, with minor amendments as necessary. The policy requirements will be re-evaluated as part of the future Jasper Community Plan review process.

Changes to the Compact Lot (R4) District of the Jasper Land Use Policy include:

  • Adding ‘manufactured home’ as a permitted use;
  • Allowing residents to replace older manufactured homes with new manufactured homes;
  • Adding average setbacks for manufactured homes:
    o Front setback: 2.7 m;
  • A manufactured home with a basement shall have an average front setback of 4.0 m.
    o Side setback: 1.5 m; and
    o Rear setback: 1.5 m;
  • Decreasing the front setback of one-unit dwellings and two-unit dwellings from 6.0 m to 4.0 m; and
  • Other minor changes to consolidate Article 7.15 Replacement of Manufactured Homes of the Land Use Policy into the Compact Lot (R4) District, and allow typical manufactured home designs without variance.

The following change was made to the Architectural Motif and Guidelines for the Town of Jasper:

  • Exempting manufactured homes from minimum roof pitch requirements.

Other changes to the Jasper Land Use Policy include:

  • Automatically allowing development permits to be valid for up to 24 months, up from 12 months;
  • Modifying the regulations to allow additional fire-resistant materials for window frames and other detailing in residential and commercial areas;
  • Clarifying FireSmart regulations for signage, windows, fences and heavy timbers in the Architectural Motif;
  • Allowing row-houses in all residential districts to allow adjacent neighbours to collaborate to build attached and semi-attached housing forms at the same density as R2 District Lots; and
  • Removing minor regulations restricting the design of residential parking.
Update March 2025 – Permit Statistics

Here is a snapshot of the status of permitting as of March 2025:

  • 18 new staff have been added to support planning and development across Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper
  • 99% of demolition permits issued
  • 82 Development Permits Issued since September, with the first residential permit issued on February 3, 2025
  • 12 variance applications approved since December 2, 2024
  • 215 pre-development meetings held since the end of October 2024
  • 1,350+ emails and phone calls with lessees and contractors since December 1, 2024
Update February 2025 – Compliance deposit requirements have been reduced

In the past, applicants had to pay a large compliance deposit at the beginning of the permitting process. These deposits could range from $40,000 to $500,000, depending on the size of the project.

Now, applicants only need to pay a smaller deposit once they receive occupancy approval, rather than at the building permit stage. This means most homeowners won’t need to pay a deposit anymore. For commercial or larger developments, a deposit may still be required.

Compliance deposits help ensure that outstanding permit conditions like landscaping, siding, or code issues– are completed according to approved plans. Once all permit conditions are met, applicants receive their deposit back.

The new system reduces the financial burden for applicants and helps speed up the permitting process, while still ensuring the project meets conditions. This change applies across Jasper National Park, including within the Jasper townsite.

The details:

  • The compliance deposit is now required at the time of conditional occupancy, not at time of building permit issuance.
  • The deposit amount will be based on 15% of the value of any outstanding landscaping costs and up to 100% of the costs of other outstanding conditions, only when the total value of those outstanding conditions exceeds $50,000.
  • These changes are intended to streamline permitting and reduce financial barriers for applicants.
  • As a result of these changes, most residential developments will no longer need to provide large upfront financial deposits.
Update February 2025 – Simplifying permitting

In the building permit process, Parks Canada has eliminated the requirement for foundation elevation checks which simplifies the permitting process by issuing a single-stage building permit.

Parks Canada previously issued building permits for projects requiring a foundation in two stages. The first stage permitted only the pouring of the foundation, and once the foundation was verified by a professional surveyor, the permit was amended to allow full construction.

What’s changed?

The new approach has eliminated the requirement for foundation elevation checks. This simplifies the permitting process by issuing a single-stage building permit, making the building process faster.

Update December 2024 – Fees for permits

New Land Use Planning Regulations for the National Parks came into effect in December 2024. These new regulations introduce a new fee structure for planning services to replace outdated fees that had not been changed in over 50 years. In response to the unique circumstances caused by the Jasper wildfire, all land use planning and development fees will be reduced for all properties to be no more than they would have been prior to the new Land Use Planning Regulations coming into force until further notice.

For more information on what fees may apply to projects, please contact the Development Office at developpementjasper-jasperdevelopment@pc.gc.ca.

Update October 2024 – Rebuilding guide and updated development policies

In October 2024, the policies that apply to development in Jasper were updated using the following guiding principles: make rebuilding easier, rebuild with fire in mind, increase housing options, climate resilience, and sustainability. A team of Parks Canada and Municipality of Jasper planners also published a Rebuilding Guide, which summarizes the policy updates, present FAQs for rebuilding, and provides information on steps to follow when rebuilding.

Rebuild dashboard

Rebuild dashboard

This page provides current information on development and building permit activity at the Jasper Development Office. Here, you’ll find data on:

  • NEW! Community rebuild progress information in the Municipality of Jasper
  • Current average permit processing timelines
  • Volume of applications received
  • The number of permits at each stage of the review process
  • Historical data (permits issued since September 2024 – present)
House under construction with protective barriers around the site.

This section provides information about the progress of Jasper’s recovery after the 2024 Jasper Wildfire. Detailed information on overall numbers for both fire impacted and non-fire impacted projects for all of Jasper National Park (within the Municipality of Jasper and outside the townsite) is also available on this site.

Information is updated regularly to offer a clear view of recovery progress, processing trends, and current volume of applications.

About the development process in Jasper

A development office helps guide safe, organized construction by ensuring projects align with local plans, zoning, and building codes. Permits are a standard requirement in any jurisdiction—they protect public safety, the environment, and property values by ensuring projects meet established standards.

An approved Development Permit confirms that a development proposal complies with the criteria and specifications set out in all relevant Parks Canada policies, acts and regulations. Applications for development permits can be submitted anytime, even before debris removal steps are complete.

Once a Development Permit is issued, you must apply for a Parks Canada Building Permit to begin construction. A building permit confirms your project complies with relevant aspects of the national building code - Alberta edition. Information on applying for permits is available here.

Community rebuild progress information in the Municipality of Jasper (Updated February 9, 2026)

Rebuild progress is moving forward in Jasper, as construction starts are continuing to increase across town. Each new construction start marks a meaningful step towards the overall recovery of the community.

Site preparation status of fire-impacted properties within the Municipality of Jasper

Updated: February 9, 2026 - Source: Parks Canada
Bar chart
Text version
Status Number of properties

Properties with debris remaining

1

Properties where soil sample reports (confirmatory sampling) need to be submitted to Parks Canada

11

Properties where soil sample reports (confirmatory sampling) are being reviewed by Parks Canada

2

Properties where the site is confirmed safe for human health (Certificate of Completion from Parks Canada)

361

*The initial rapid assessment identified 358 destroyed structures immediately following the 2024 Jasper wildfire. Further assessment showed that remediation was required at 375 properties. Overall figures were updated on October 20, 2025, to reflect current recovery progress.

The total number of properties in the site preparation graphs are different from the rebuild graphs because one property required cleanup but did not lose a structure, so it does not need to be rebuilt.

Rebuilding phases

Back of a construction worker overlooking a construction site.

To support rebuilding, Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper have outlined a 5-phase approach to Rebuilding Jasper. We recognize that recovery timelines vary and that moving through the different phases of rebuilding takes time. Supports are available at each stage, and additional resources will continue to be introduced throughout recovery as needs are identified.

Graphic

Rebuild status of destroyed properties

The following presents the status of properties destroyed in the 2024 Jasper Wildfire as they move through the phases of rebuilding. Each property appears on the graphic only once. Projects in later phases have met all required criteria in earlier phases (for example, a project under construction or at the occupancy stage also has an approved building permit). We recognise that timelines for rebuilding will vary for individuals based on a variety of factors.

The Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre, a partnership between Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper continues to work on identifying and making available supports for each stage of recovery.

Rebuild status of fire-destroyed properties within the Municipality of Jasper

Updated: February 9, 2026 - Source: Parks Canada
Bar chart
Text version
Status Number of properties

Phases 1 & 2: Prepare & design (properties with no permit applications)

187

Phase 3A: Application process (properties in the rebuild application process)

77

Phase 3B: Building permit approved (properties ready for construction)

24

Phase 4: Build (properties where construction is underway)

71

Phase 5: Occupancy (properties with finished buildings)

15

*The initial rapid assessment identified 358 destroyed structures immediately following the 2024 Jasper wildfire. Based on further assessment it is anticipated that rebuilding is required at 374 properties. Estimated rebuild numbers were updated on October 20, 2025.

In addition to the 71 properties in Phase 4, an additional 15 properties have visible signs of construction work starting which are included in Phase 3B overall numbers.

More information on each rebuild phase is provided below. More supports will be added as they are identified and available.

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  Phases 1 and 2: Prepare and design (properties with no permit applications)

Properties that have yet to apply for a rebuild permit. Leaseholders may be:

  • Working through insurance claims and settlement processes.
  • Navigating personal decisions and considering options.
  • Thinking through building design plans.
  • Selling their property.
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 Phase 3A: Application process (properties in the rebuild application process)

Properties in the rebuilding application process with Parks Canada. This includes approval from Parks of:

  • Development permits
  • Building permits
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 Phase 3B: Building permit approved (properties ready for construction)

Properties with building permits from Parks Canada. Contractors are preparing for construction behind the scenes and mobilizing equipment and materials on the ground.

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 Phase 4: Build (properties where construction is underway)

Properties currently building. Construction starts are counted once concrete pours, or equivalent for buildings where there is no concrete foundation.

An additional 15 properties have visible signs of construction work starting which are included in Phase 3B overall numbers.

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  Phase 5: Occupancy (properties with finished buildings)

Properties with buildings that have received Occupancy Permits from Parks Canada and are ready for Jasperites to call home and run their businesses.

Current development permit timelines

We know timelines matter. The following table provides information on current average timelines for development permit review. We are actively expanding capacity and focusing our efforts on streamlining processes to reduce timelines. Information on average timelines will be updated regularly.

Current average timelines for development permits (number of days from permit submission to issuance in business days)
Development permit
Application category December 30, 2025 to January 12, 2026 January 13 to January 26, 2026 January 27 to February 9, 2026
Complete and conforming 12 business days 18 business days 18 business days
Incomplete or minor non-conformance 28 business days 21 business days 49 business days
Major non-conformance 30 business days 62 business days 72 business days

Preliminary review timeline

Once we receive your permit application, our team will conduct a preliminary review to confirm that all required documentation is included. Exact timelines are impacted by the volume and completeness of applications received.

Speed up the permit process with a complete application

Parks Canada staff member shows paperwork to a resident who looks at it.

Only 50% of development applications are complete and conforming when first submitted.

That means 50% of applications require revisions, leading to delays and extra work for both applicants and the development office.

Why it matters

Incomplete applications:

  • Require back-and-forth communication
  • Take more time and effort for applicants
  • Increase the workload and slow down the processing of other permits

Speed up your application process

To avoid delays and help us serve you faster:

  • Review your application carefully before submitting
  • Ensure all required information and details are included

Book a pre-application meeting with a planner from Parks Canada or the Municipality of Jasper. These meetings are one of the best ways to set your application up for success.

Development office numbers

The following graphs provide information on permits issued since September 2024 following the wildfire. Data includes all projects in Jasper National Park including within the Municipality of Jasper and outside the townsite.

Rebuild: permits issued for properties that were fire impacted or destroyed.

Other projects: permits issued for all other projects such as home renovations, new homes, additions, decks.

Data includes commercial and non-commercial properties.

Bar graph
Development permits issued (current to February 9, 2026).
Text version
Development permits issued (current to January 26, 2026)
Month Rebuild Other projects
September 2024 0 9
October 2024 0 18
November 2024 0 23
December 2024 0 34
January 2025 0 48
February 2025 8 60
March 2025 16 73
April 2025 23 85
May 2025 41 104
June 2025 59 127
July 2024 79 145
August 2025 100 160
September 2025 115 182
October 2025 130 204
November 2025 138 217
December 2025 152 224
January 2026 162 232
February 2026 165 234
Bar graph
Building permits issued (current to February 9, 2026).
Text version
Building permits issued (current to January 26, 2026)
Month Rebuild Other projects
Septembre 2024 0 2
October 2024 0 4
November 2024 0 4
December 2024 0 9
January 2025 0 13
February 2025 0 23
March 2025 3 27
April 2025 4 33
May 2025 10 37
June 2025 15 42
July 2024 32 48
August 2025 48 54
September 2025 66 59
October 2025 88 73
November 2025 108 82
December 2025 116 95
January 2026 117 99
February 2026 117 101

Park recovery updates

Read about post-wildfire recovery in park recreation areas including trails, day-use areas and campgrounds.

To find information on recovery in the town of Jasper, consult the Jasper recovery webpage.

Date Details
January 22, 2026

Update on park recovery: What can we expect in 2026?

Details

Update on park recovery: What can we expect in 2026?

Trails, roads and day use areas

Parks Canada has been working throughout Jasper National Park to reopen trails and visitor areas affected by wildfire. This work includes clearing hazard trees; repairing and rerouting trails; building bridges, privies and signage; and monitoring for slope safety and invasive species. This complex work requires thoughtful planning, ecological understanding and close collaboration across teams to ensure these areas are safe and ready for visitors.

Thanks to this ongoing effort, summer 2025 saw the reopening of popular trails and areas at Whistlers Mountain, Lac Beauvert, Lake Annette, Lake Edith, Fifth to Sixth Bridge off Maligne Road and more. While the majority of Jasper National Park is now open and ready to explore, recovery work continues in a small number of locations.

The following locations will reopen in summer 2026

  • Valley of the Five Lakes trail, featuring improvements to this much-loved trail including a realigned trail section, improved surfaces and signage, and new rest areas designed to enhance comfort and accessibility.
  • Wabasso Lake trail and Curator trail, offering even more opportunities to experience Jasper’s remarkable landscapes and ongoing renewal.

The following locations will remain closed

  • Trail 9 and 9C, connecting Old Fort Point to Valley of the Five Lakes, will remain closed until further notice. This area requires hazard tree clearing and environmental monitoring to understand how changes in the landscape affect the trail.
  • Cavell Road and Maligne Canyon will remain closed for the 2026 season, as Parks Canada continues to assess conditions and plan the extensive rehabilitation work required to safely reopen these iconic areas.

These places require additional assessment, removal of hazards or replacement of infrastructure before they can reopen for visitors to safely enjoy.

More information about recovery of trails, roads and day use areas

Campgrounds

Parks Canada has worked hard clearing hazard trees, reconnecting utilities, and rebuilding campground infrastructure to maximize camping availability, supporting visitors and the Jasper tourism economy.

  • In 2025, Parks Canada was able to open approximately 75% of frontcountry campsites and 100% of backcountry campsites. All of these campsites will be open for the 2026 season, with additional capacity being added when required through extended overflow camping and operating dates.
  • Wabasso Campground, Whirlpool Group Campground, Marmot Meadows Group Campground, and a portion of Wapiti Campground will remain closed for the 2026 season, as Parks Canada plans for the rebuild of these heavily fire-affected campgrounds.

More information about recovery of campgrounds

Other fire-affected areas

The Palisades Stewardship and Education Centre suffered significant damage in the 2024 Jasper Wildfire and will be closed for the foreseeable future.

The Jasper National Park Cultural Use Area suffered significant damage in the 2024 Jasper Wildfire. This outdoor space has reopened for use by Indigenous partners and infrastructure replacement is ongoing.

Plan your trip to Jasper

Visitors can plan trips to Jasper National Park using the online interactive What’s Open map, featuring real-time updates on available facilities and areas. While in town, visitors are encouraged to stop by the Jasper National Park Information Centre for itinerary recommendations and guidance.

Visit Jasper National Park’s website to plan your visit.


More information

Valley of the Five Lakes trail

Restoration is near completion at Valley of the Five Lakes trail. Parks Canada staff have been hard at work clearing burned trees, rebuilding bridges and signage, rerouting trails, and monitoring the area for slope stability and invasive species.

With a planned reopening in summer 2026, several improvements have been made that trail users will enjoy, including:

  • a realigned section of trail with stunning new ridgeline views
  • improved signage for trail selection and wayfinding
  • upgraded trail surfaces with improved drainage
  • new rest areas with benches and picnic tables

Cavell Road and Maligne Canyon

Cavell Road and Maligne Canyon provide access to areas with high-angle slopes and exposure. The loss of trees and vegetation on these slopes creates an increased risk for debris flows and landslides.

For public safety, Parks Canada must ensure slope stability and roadway safety standards are met, including possible installation of infrastructure such as retaining structures, guardrails and signage, before reopening these areas.

Initial danger tree removal has been completed at Cavell Road and Maligne Canyon, and geotechnical assessments were completed in fall 2025. The results of the assessments are being evaluated, and Parks Canada is beginning to develop plans for required interventions. Timelines will be communicated as planning progresses.

Campgrounds

Parks Canada recognizes the importance of campgrounds to the overall visitor economy of Jasper and is proud to offer high-quality camping experiences.

Parks Canada has a dedicated infrastructure rebuild team working on recovery related to Parks Canada infrastructure destroyed in the 2024 wildfire. Planning for the rebuild of fire-impacted campgrounds (Wapiti, Wabasso, Marmot Meadows Group Campground and Whirlpool Group Campground) began in winter 2024 and is ongoing.

The rebuild effort required is significant. Much of the infrastructure lost at these campgrounds was at or near the end of its lifespan (50+ years). While pursuing aggressive timelines and exploring ways to reduce campground closures, Parks Canada will deliver essential repairs and replacements while modernizing the camping offer at these sites. There will be future opportunities for Indigenous partners and the public to engage in the rebuild process.

Overview of damage to campgrounds

  • Wabasso Campground and Whirlpool Group Campground suffered extensive critical infrastructure damage and will remain closed until further notice.
  • Wapiti Campground was open at 30% capacity in 2025 due to critical sanitary and electrical infrastructure loss affecting 70% of sites.
  • Whistlers Campground infrastructure was mostly spared; however, burned areas and wind-damaged trees required significant clean-up prior to opening in May 2025.

Camping offer in 2025

Parks Canada opened 75% of frontcountry campsites and 100% of backcountry campsites for the 2025 season. Work included clearing hazard trees, reconnecting utilities, rebuilding campground infrastructure and replacing signage.

  • opened Overflow Campground for the full camping season and added most sites to the Parks Canada Reservation System
  • extended the camping season earlier in the spring and later into the fall at select campgrounds

Camping offer in 2026

  • 75% of Jasper’s total frontcountry campground inventory (pre-2024 wildfire) and 100% of the backcountry inventory will be available for public camping.
  • Campsites to support displaced residents and local businesses will be offered at Whistlers Campground again in 2026.
  • Camping for contractors working on the Jasper rebuild will be offered at Wabasso Campground again in 2026.
September 18, 2025

External link: Update on park recovery efforts and area closures

June 26, 2025

Area closure update: Cavell Road, Maligne Canyon and the Valley of the Five Lakes

Details

June 26, 2025: Area closure update: Cavell Road, Maligne Canyon and the Valley of the Five Lakes

Parks Canada has worked diligently to reopen most areas of Jasper National Park impacted by the 2024 Jasper Wildfire. Visitors can enjoy the full range of Jasper activities including hiking and biking along extensive trail networks, swimming and canoeing in turquoise lakes, safely observing wildlife, and taking in scenic viewpoints that offer vistas of the ecological regeneration that follows a wildfire. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and reserve Parks Canada campsites.

Recovery efforts continue throughout the park: three highly impacted areas remain closed and will require more time to recover.

Parks Canada is continuing to work on and assess Cavell Road, Maligne Canyon and the Valley of the Five Lakes trails and day-use areas. Given the extent of damage following the wildfire and the scope of the rehabilitation work ahead, Parks Canada will maintain these closures until further notice.

What’s next

We understand how special these areas are to our community and visitors and we’re committed to restoring safe access. The closures are in areas that involve significant slopes and/or roadways, and to ensure public safety, Parks Canada must confirm that slope stability and roadway safety standards are met before these areas can be reopened. The next steps involve hazardous tree removal, detailed geotechnical analysis, and infrastructure design, engineering and rebuild.

Parks Canada is working with technical experts and will engage stakeholders as appropriate as we focus on restoring access, and ultimately, building for Jasper National Park’s future.

  • Cavell Road was most impacted by wildfire in the first ~ 3 km of the road, including the switchbacks. This part of the road has always been prone to debris flow, rock falls and flooding, and since the wildfire, the lack of trees and vegetation increases this risk. Hazard trees remain a safety concern along the roadway. Slope stability and roadway safety standards (including installation of infrastructure such as retaining walls, guardrails and signage) must be met before reopening the area. The section of road above the switchbacks is unaffected. At this time, there is no confirmed timeline for reopening Cavell Road. Parks Canada is working diligently and will share updates as soon as more information is available. 

  • Maligne Canyon trail from First Bridge to Fifth Bridge suffered significant infrastructure and vegetation damage from particularly intense wildfire behaviour. The loss of trees and vegetation on the steep slopes and in the canyon itself creates a high risk for debris fall and landslides. Working on this sloped terrain is dangerous. Removing hazard trees will be a difficult operation. Further geotechnical analysis will be required before operational repairs (extensive trail repairs, trail rerouting, fencing and signage replacement) can be completed safely. Work is ongoing to remove the hazards at Fifth Bridge day use area. At this time, there is no confirmed timeline for reopening Maligne Canyon.

  • Valley of the Five Lakes trail still requires hazardous tree removal. The wildfire changed the landscape, and new water flow patterns may affect how the trail is designed. Minor trail repairs, trail rerouting, and the replacement of signage, small bridges and privies are required before this area can reopen. Work is being completed to remove hazards and repair or replace infrastructure.

  • The Curator Trail (#101) is closed below Shovel Pass Lodge for 2025.

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