The primary duties normally associated with the activities of the Fire Prevention Division are related to the enforcement of local and state fire codes, public fire prevention education, and the investigation of the cause and origins of fire. The Fire Prevention Division provides a comprehensive fire/life safety plan review for land development, new building construction, interior remodel projects, fire suppression, and fire alarm systems. In addition, construction inspections, annual business inspections and vegetation management inspections are performed to ensure compliance with codes and ordinances.
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Land Development and Building Construction
Fire and Building Codes often require that land development and building construction projects meet local fire department standards for fire extinguishing systems, fire alarm systems, fire access roadways, etc. The Scotts Valley Fire District along with the Fire Prevention Officers of Santa Cruz County publishes many such standards and guidelines that are readily available to architects, engineers or the general public.
Weed Abatement Program
The goal of the weed abatement program is to reduce the number, size, and exposure of vegetation fires in areas protected by the Scotts Valley Fire District. The district manages and implements a hazardous weed/brush abatement program for vacant and residential parcels within its jurisdictional boundaries. Homeowners are reminded that they must remove dry or hazardous native brush and vegetation from around their home to create defensible space.
For questions concerning the Weed Abatement Program, contact the District headquarters or click here.
Annual Fire Safety Inspections
For existing commercial buildings, the Fire Prevention Division provides an annual inspection program that is delivered through both Prevention Division and fire station personnel. All Department personnel are part of the fire prevention team. Annual inspections are conducted to ensure reasonable compliance with the general and specific fire safety regulations for each occupancy type as specified in the adopted Fire and Building Codes.
Special Events
Throughout the year, the Fire Prevention Division provides plan review and inspection services for a variety of special events such as; carnivals, fairs and festivals, fireworks shoots, haunted houses, etc.