Our air quality is impacted by several factors, including:

• Human activities like transportation, electricity generation, industrial processes and more
• Wildfires which release particulates and smoke into the air
• The shape of the land which can trap pollution closer to the surface of the land

Management of air quality is important because poor air quality can cause negative environmental and human health effects. Each individual’s actions contribute to improving air quality, which is essential for creating a healthier environment and enhancing overall community well-being.  

Monitoring Air Quality

Red Deer has two air quality monitoring stations that are operated by Parkland Airshed Management Zone (PAMZ). PAMZ is a non-profit society that develops and implements strategies to address air quality concerns in west central Alberta. The main pollutants that are monitored are: fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂).  

Learn more about the stations and how air quality is monitored in this Riverside Air Quality Monitoring Station Tour video created by PAMZ.

Information that is collected is used to inform the Air Quality Health Index. The Government of Alberta's Air Quality Health Index measures air quality in the community and reports the risk to your health. Download the WeatherCAN app for Apple or Android to stay up-to-date on local air quality conditions.

What You Can Do

You can protect our air by:

• Reducing vehicle idling in the community
• Making your home more energy efficient with a smart thermostat or by checking out the Energy & Water Conservation Toolkit
• Trying a new mode of transportation like transit, walking or cycling, or an e-scooter
• Follow fire bans when they are in place

What We’re Doing

The City of Red Deer is committed to improving air quality by:

• Reporting annually on the status of greenhouse gas emissions and levels of air quality pollutants as part of our Environmental Master Plan reporting
• Implementing the 3410-CA Idle Free (pdf) for City vehicles and created “Idle Free Zones” around schools and some City facilities
• Working with the Government of Alberta to reduce (PM₅) levels through the implementation of a PM_2.5 response plan

Air Quality Complaints

Industrial emissions – Air emissions from industrial sources are regulated by the provincial government. Any concerns can be reported by calling the 24-hour Energy & Environmental Response Line at 1-800-222-6514.

Nuisance smoke, dust and backyard firepits – According to the Community Standards Bylaw 3669/2021 (pdf) activities that create smoke, dust or other airborne materials must be controlled with reasonable precautions. The Fire Permit Bylaw 3387/2007 (pdf) states that firepits, outdoor fireplaces, portable fire receptacles and barbecues must not create a nuisance which is offensive to any other person. When air quality is poor or during wildfire events, a fire ban may be issued to reduce further contributions to smoke and particulates. Concerns can be directed to Inspections & Licensing at 403-342-8190.