We understand Jasperites are facing uncertainty, especially when it comes to housing. Housing is the foundation on which recovery is built, and we hope the following information brings people the details they need to make an informed decision on housing to fit their needs.
The interim housing units:
Parks Canada has secured interim housing units for Jasper residents. The 300+ housing units started arriving in Jasper in mid-February, with initial occupancy February 26, 2025.
Who is managing the interim housing sites?
On behalf of the Municipality of Jasper and Parks Canada, through the Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre, the Canadian Red Cross will provide property management services to Jasper residents placed in units as part of the interim housing program. In this property management role, they will support with: responding to tenant inquiries and requests, facilitating access to utilities, coordinating maintenance of the site and units and managing leases.
How is interim housing allocated?
The Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park are deeply interconnected—neither can function without the other. The interim housing allocation process ensures that the town and park have the necessary personnel to operate effectively while also supporting recovery efforts and those impacted by the fire as they rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities.
The first objective is to house individuals whose in-person work is critical to the operation of the town and/or the national park. The second is to address the housing needs of those whose jobs directly support these operationally critical functions. The third priority extends to workers involved in rebuilding, economic recovery, and community restoration. Following that, the housing allocation process aims to provide housing to as many displaced households as possible.
Within these four priorities, special consideration is given to families with school-aged children and those who lost housing as a direct result of the 2024 Jasper Wildfire.
For eligibility details, review the Parks Canada definition of eligible resident here.
How was each interim housing unit assigned?
With unit availability being the primary limiter, members from the JRCC worked diligently to match applicants to units that best align with the needs outlined in their applications. The interim housing units in Jasper were sourced from several different suppliers, as no single supplier had the capacity to deliver the full number of units requested. As a result, the layouts of the units vary from one another. To ensure fairness and consistency, the team first looked at each type of housing unit and identified the most appropriate household configuration for that unit type. Only then did they review applications to find households that matched those criteria to ensure that assignments were based on suitability. Moving forward, the Canadian Red Cross, as our property managers, will be responsible for assigning units.
Will applications not yet assigned a unit be used moving forward?
The first interim housing move ins began at the end of February. All remaining applications are still being processed and considered on a rolling basis. If more units become available or residents move out, we will use the outstanding list of applications to fill future vacancies. Our goal remains to secure housing for displaced residents. At this time, we are not able to match all applicants to a unit and appreciate how the Jasper community is welcoming their neighbours into their homes to alleviate some of the demand for interim housing. We continue to recommend that people explore all options available to them.
How can I get interim housing units for my employees?
At this time, a seasonal work camp is still being explored, and is not yet finalized, so there is no application process available. The confirmed housing option is the interim housing that became available at the end of February. Employees can apply through the ongoing interim housing application process, provided they meet Parks Canada's eligible residency requirements. They will be assessed based on the same allocation criteria as other applicants. Any new information about the seasonal work camp will be shared as it becomes available.
How do I apply for interim housing?
To be considered for interim housing, you must complete the official housing application. The interim housing program is intended for Jasperites who have been displaced as a direct result of the 2024 Jasper wildfire.
To be eligible for interim housing, you must meet Parks Canada's eligible residency requirements.
What organizations have helped to equip interim housing units?
As Jasper continues to recover, ensuring that interim housing feels like home is an important part of the process. We are grateful to the organizations that have stepped up to support our community members as they settle into their interim homes.
A heartfelt thank you to Canadian Tire and Samaritan’s Purse for their generous donations, helping to smooth the move-in process and bring comfort to those in need. Your support is making a meaningful difference for residents as they rebuild their lives.
Recovery is a community effort, and we appreciate everyone who is helping to make Jasper stronger. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Where are the interim housing sites in town?
Within the townsite, there are currently 4 parcels of land ready for interim housing
See the map of interim housing site locations within the townsite here.
Why is there not more land available?
The municipality continues to pursue lands within and outside the municipality for additional interim housing units as funding permits.
When are households moving into interim housing?
Occupancy of units began at the end of February and move-ins continue.
The first phase of move ins began at the end of February and move ins are expected to continue over the coming months. The JRCC continues to work with all levels of government, private leaseholders, and housing providers to secure additional locations and housing units.
Regular updates will be provided to keep the community informed as we progress.
What other actions are being taken?
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.
For more information on Park’s Canada’s contributions to interim housing, see their website.
The municipality is also exploring options through:
- Jasper Municipal Housing Corporation
- Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation
- Programs to support the development of accessory dwelling units.