The Nevada City Fire Department was organized in June 1860 as a Volunteer Fire Department and has been in continual operation since then. According to historical records, it was the women of Nevada City who took the first step toward the organization of the permanent Fire Department by holding a ball at the court house and later a theatrical show. Monies earned from these events went into a fund to be held in trust towards the formation of the Fire Department.
With a current staff of 20 Volunteer Firefighters, 1 paid Fire Chief, 1 Paid Captain and 1 paid Engineer the Fire Department responds to approximately 1,000 calls for service a year. The Fire Department jointly staffs our primary station with Nevada County Consolidated Fire District in order to provide 24 hour, year-round service. The Fire Department currently has three engines, one brush engine, and two utility vehicles to cover the City. We also respond to calls in other jurisdictions under a Mutual Aid Agreement. Our volunteers have been out on numerous wild land fires and other disasters with the US Forest Service, the California Department of Forestry and the Office of Emergency Services.
Our funding primarily comes from general fund revenues generated by taxes including sales tax and fees charged by the City. These funds are shared with Public Works, Water and Waste Water and the Police Department. Our Fire Fighter’s Association also raises funds to supplement our budget and has purchased special pieces of equipment such as heart defibrillators and radios.
FAQ’s
Is today a burn day?
The phone number to call for burn day information is 274-7928.
Where can I get a burn permit?
Burn Permits are available free of charge at the following locations:
City Hall; 317 Broad St, Nevada City;
Monday – Friday; 8:00am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pm
OR
Station 54; 201 Providence Mine Rd., Nevada City
Monday – Friday; 8:00am-5:00pm
Where do I go to pay fire department fees?
Fees will only be collected at City Hall.
Do I live in the City or the County?
If your home has a one, two or three digit address and you have a 95959 zip code, you live in the incorporated area of the City of Nevada City. If you have a Nevada City address with a 5 digit house number, you live in the county. There are a small number of exceptions to this. If you are unsure, please call City Hall and we will help you.
How can I donate to the Nevada City Fire Department?
Tax Deductible donations can be made to the Firefighters Association of Nevada City. Mailed to:
Firefighters Association
PO Box 1943
Nevada City, CA 95959
