Department History

The North County Fire Protection District of Monterey County was originally formed on November 21, 1949 as the Castroville Fire Department (CFD). The small department responded to emergencies within and immediately surrounding the township.

A 1971 annexation brought Moss Landing and the Elkhorn area into Castroville's jurisdiction. After insufficient revenues closed the Hall Fire District and the Greater Hall Fire District, the area was annexed into CFD in 1972. Two years later, the District increased its Board membership from three to five directors.

A 1981 study conducted by the Monterey County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) concluded that a fully consolidated fire district would provide the most cost effective and operationally efficient fire service from the North Monterey County area. Their recommendations were to consolidate Castroville Fire, Aromas Fire, and Salinas Rural Fire's Station Two area (Prunedale). While Aromas remained independent, reorganization in 1982 implemented LAFCO's other recommendations and the newly reorganized agency was named the North County Fire Protection District of Monterey County (NCFPD).

Through the years, NCFPD has developed many important programs that enhance emergency services while remaining cost efficient.

1984 - In a joint powers agreement (JPA) with four other fire districts within Monterey County, NCFPD self-insures for workers compensation. The JPA also purchases liability insurance.

1986 - Firefighters become Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certified.

1990 - A medical services zone of benefit special tax is implemented which provides revenue to strengthen medical services.

1992 - Annexation of the Pajaro Community Services District for fire protection services.

1993 - Defibrillators are purchased and Emergency Medical technicians are upgraded to include Defibrillator certification.

1994 - Life safety training assemblies are provided to elementary school children by the newly developed Children's Awareness Program (CAP).

1999 - Urban Search and Rescue Team is formed. This specialized team responds to unique emergency situations with members from North County Fire District, Monterey City Fire Department, and Salinas Rural Fire District.

2001 - Industrial construction at the Moss Landing Power Plant provides revenue to increase engine company staffing to a three-person minimum as well as the purchase of a 75-foot aerial ladder truck.

2003 - Three (3) thermal imagers are purchased to provide firefighters with enhanced vision capabilities.

2003 - A grant received from FEMA Fire Act assists the District in obtaining 30 full sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), 49 SCBA bottles, and protective clothing.

2004 - As outlined in the District's Capital Facilities Plan, the District is able to purchase a replacement water tender.

2004 - As part of a Department of Homeland Security grant received on behalf of the USAR Team, the District receives $50,000 for partial payment toward a new Heavy Rescue Truck. Acquisition expected in 2005.

2005 - A grant received from the Department of Homeland Security allows the District to replace its entire radio inventory including base stations, portables, and mobile emergency communication equipment.

2006 - A grant received from Office of Traffic Safety allows the District, in conjunction with multiple Monterey County fire agencies, to incorporate highway safety gear and tools such as air bags, hydraulic tools, signs, vests, etc.