Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) FireSmart residents who do mitigation work to protect their homes from wildfire could benefit from a new homeowner rebate program.
In announcing the program May 1, the TRND said eligible rebates are available for up to 50 per cent or $500 for mitigation work done within 1.5 metres of a home.
The rebates can cover actual costs incurred for mitigation work and/or costs of labour by the homeowner.
To apply for a rebate there are a few steps.
They include:
1. Request a free FireSmart Home Assessment.
2. After a Home Assessment is completed and a report has been provided, review recommendations for mitigation work.
3. Act on mitigation work that has been recommended. A FireSmart Assessment Rebate Form will be provided, and residents will be asked to record personal hours (if applicable) and any money spent on contractors or materials (invoices or receipts will be required). A follow-up inspection will then be completed by a TNRD FireSmart staff member.
4. Submit your rebate application form to firesmart@tnrd.ca.
The TNRD said funding through this rebate program is available on a first-come, first-serve basis between May 1 and October 31. This program is open for TNRD Electoral Area properties only.
If your property is located in a municipality, First Nation, or neighbouring regional district, please refer to your local government’s FireSmart™ program if a rebate program is available.
TNRD marketing and communications manager Colton Davies said the TNRD received grant funding from the province, which will fund the rebate program.
"We have dedicated $100,000 toward the program," he said.
To request a free FireSmart™ Home Assessment, use the TNRD’s intuitive FireSmart™ Assessment Request interactive map by clicking here. Those who require assistance using the online form can contact TNRD FireSmart staff at 250-377-8673 or firesmart@tnrd.ca.
Throughout 2025, TNRD FireSmart™ staff will be conducting free home assessments, hosting or attending community events, hosting free chipping days, and making education materials available to support residents doing fire mitigation work at home. For more information, visit: tnrd.ca/firesmart.
