Fire

It is an honor to serve as Fire Chief for the community where my career in fire and emergency medical services began in 2005. Initially, I worked on the ambulance and later completed my paramedic internship before joining the Department full time in 2007. Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege of serving throughout the organization, deepening my connection to this community and my respect for the people who protect it.

The community we serve is both extraordinary and complex, spanning Palo Alto’s diverse neighborhoods, Stanford University, leading businesses and institutions, and treasured open spaces. Our responsibility is to be ready for all of it: delivering compassionate, professional service today while preparing thoughtfully for emerging risks and future needs.

As Fire Chief, I am committed to earning and sustaining public trust through transparent and accountable leadership, meaningful partnerships, responsible stewardship and continuous improvement. Together with our firefighters, paramedics, prevention professionals, support staff and partners across the City, I will honor the Department’s proud history while building an innovative, resilient and inclusive service for everyone in Palo Alto.

Respectfully,

Steve Lindsey
Fire Chief

The Fire Department conducts daily training exercises and ensures firefighters exceed all certification standards to maintain a state of readiness to respond to a wide variety of emergency and non-emergency calls for service. The three shifts of professional firefighters at each station work 24/7 to provide fire suppression, emergency medical services, ambulance transport, hazardous material management, technical and water rescue, and other types of interventions to protect the life and property of the community when needed. 

Looking for a Fire Station or to learn about the difference between a Fire Engine and Fire Truck? Check out the department's Operations page. 

To learn more about the Organization, goals and achievements of the department check out the Fire Administration page.

The Fire Prevention Bureau is housed in the Development Center, and ensures compliance with the fire code for the safety of occupants and protection of property. Fire Inspectors perform fire sprinkler and fire alarm plan checks, permitting and field inspections to ensure all construction complies with local and national codes.

Please send all inquiries relating to fire permits to firepermits@paloalto.gov.  Visit the Fire Prevention page for more information on our department and public services. 

The Palo Alto Fire Department is taking all measures to protect public safety in response to COVID-19. All emergency response crews are strictly adhering to the Infectious Disease Control Measures required by the Santa Clara County Emergency Medical Services Department. The Department and the City are continuously tracking and monitoring the public health situation in our community, including participating in the Santa Clara County briefings as well as monitoring advisories issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). You can find the most up-to-date information on measures the City is taking by visiting the Coronavirus page.

For questions regarding your ambulance bill please contact our billing agency
Digitech at (888) 980-9213.

You may also visit their website to update your address, provide insurance information or make a payment at Ambulance Billing Patient Portal

Palo Alto Fire Department Records

Please select the type of record you are requesting and fill out the online form to submit a request for the record.  Feel free to contact our office if you have further questions.

PAFD Medical Records Request (Ambulance Transport/Billing Records)

Fire Incident Report Request - click this link and select the "Submit a Public Records Request" option and follow the instructions.