Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Saint David Fire District, volunteering, burn permits, and public meetings. For emergencies, always call 911.
Why isn’t someone always at the station?
Saint David Fire District relies on volunteers who also have jobs and family responsibilities. The station is not continuously staffed. For emergencies, call 911 rather than coming to the station. For non-emergency questions, call (520) 720-4045.
What services does Saint David Fire District provide?
SDFD responds to structure, wildland, and vehicle fires; medical emergencies; motor vehicle accidents; and rescues. We also provide fire-safety education, participate in community events, and assist with snake removal.
Do I have to live in the district to volunteer?
Volunteers are generally expected to live within 15 minutes of the station, although the Fire Chief may grant a waiver. Members living outside the area are expected to commit at least 24 hours per month, including training. All members are expected to attend at least 20 of the 26 scheduled training sessions each year.
Visit our Volunteer page or email recruitment@stdavidfire.com to discuss available roles and requirements.
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No prior firefighting or EMS experience is needed to ask about volunteering. SDFD provides training appropriate to your assigned role. Opportunities include firefighting, emergency medical services, and community support.
Firefighting and EMS members must obtain the required EMT or Firefighter I/II certification within 18 months of joining, based on their assigned role. Community support members receive training for their duties without those certification requirements.
How do I apply for a burn permit?
Start on our Burn Permits page and review the instructions. Use the Burn Location Check to verify your address or parcel number before completing the application.
Submitting an application does not authorize you to burn. Wait until your permit has been reviewed and issued, then follow its conditions and check the current burn status before each burn.
Why can SDFD respond to my property but not issue a burn permit?
Our emergency response area and taxing district are different. SDFD responds to calls outside its taxing district, but we are only authorized to issue burn permits for properties within the taxing district.
Use our Burn Location Check to confirm whether SDFD can issue a permit for your property. If your property is outside the taxing district, you’ll be directed to Arizona DEQ permit information.
What if the Burn Location Check cannot find my property?
Try entering only your street number, then select your address from the results. You can also search using your parcel number.
If your property still does not appear and you believe it is within SDFD’s taxing district, call (520) 720-4045 for help verifying the location. If it is outside the district, follow the link to our Arizona DEQ permit information page.
Can I burn whenever I have a valid permit?
A valid permit does not authorize burning during restrictions or unsafe conditions. Check the current status on our Burn Permits page before each burn and follow all conditions printed on your permit.
If the status is unavailable or you are unsure whether burning is allowed, contact SDFD before starting.
Who do I notify before and after burning?
Call Benson Police Department dispatch at (520) 586-2211 before starting your permitted burn and again when it is fully extinguished and cold to the touch. Follow the notification instructions on your issued permit.
If a fire becomes uncontrolled or threatens people or property, call 911 immediately.
How can I attend a board meeting?
Visit our Board Meetings page for meeting notices, agendas, and available minutes. Check the notice for the meeting’s date, time, location, and attendance instructions.
You can attend online through the Join Meeting Online button during scheduled meetings.
How do I request public records?
Visit our Public Records page for guidance, then use the request button to open the form. Include dates, subjects, or other details that help us identify the records you need.
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email. To clarify or update your request, reply to that email so your follow-up stays connected to the original request.