What is my ISO rating?
ISO’s Public Protection Classification program provides fire protection ratings for communities throughout the United States. In addition to providing standards for evaluating a fire department’s capabilities, a community’s rating can impact fire insurance premiums for property owners.
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 representing superior property fire protection, the City of Petaluma’s current rating (effective August 1, 2020) is Class 2/2X. We are proud of this achievement, as a Class 2 rating or better typically is awarded to fewer than 5% of communities nationwide.
How will I know if I need to evacuate?
If an alert or warning needs to be issued for a potential threat to the City of Petaluma, community members can receive these messages by subscribing to Nixle or SoCo Alerts. As part of our emergency management and preparedness, the City of Petaluma provides this alert and warning service free to our community. To subscribe to Nixle text your Zip code to 888777. We encourage all of our community members to also sign up for SoCo Alerts if you have not already done so.
Like the County of Sonoma, the City of Petaluma also has the ability to activate the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system for situations that present an imminent threat to life or property. This notification does not require subscription and is typically received through a wireless device like a mobile phone or tablet. You may have already seen this type of alert before as it commonly used for AMBER alerts.
For more info and access to the evacuation map, go to our Evacuations Page.
When do I need to install sprinklers?
All new residential and commercial construction requires the installation of fire sprinklers. Some existing buildings, both residential and commercial, without fire sprinklers may require a fire sprinkler retrofit as a result of major remodels, additions or renovations. There are exceptions for some Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). Detailed fire sprinkler requirements can be found here.
Why do firefighters take the fire engine grocery shopping?
Firefighters make their own meals in the fire house and therefore need to shop groceries. This is an on duty activity which means when an emergency is dispatched we drop everything and respond no matter where we are and we need to have the fire engine with us.
Where can I learn CPR?
The Petaluma Fire Dept. does not offer CPR classes. However, the Petaluma Health Care District offers training and classes for CPR, AED, and other lifesaving skills, through its HealthQuest program. Go to the PHCD website for upcoming classes, or call Tami Bender, Healthquest CPR Program Manager, by phone (707-766-9226) or email.
Why does a fire engine respond to medical aids with an ambulance?
Many times a fire engine with medically trained firefighters can arrive much faster than an ambulance. Thus, lifesaving treatment immediately. Firefighters on an engine also respond with the ambulance to ensure there are personnel available to assist not just with the patient but also to manage other hazards that may be associated with the incident. Many times medical aids are not as straight forward as dealing with just one patient and we don’t know the extent of the incident until we arrive on scene.
How do I get a copy of the fire code?
Petaluma enforces the current California Fire Code. Amendments to this code adopted into local law can be found in the Petaluma Municipal Code.
How do I get a fire incident report?
You can request a fire incident report from the Fire Prevention Bureau through our online form, via email, or in person at 22 Bassett Street, Petaluma, CA, 94952.
Where do I place smoke and carbon monoxide alarms?
Smoke alarms should be placed as follows:
- one in each bedroom
- one in the hallway or common area serving the bedrooms
- in multi-story homes a smoke alarm shall be placed on each level.
- one carbon monoxide alarm shall be located on each level of the home.
Refer to the manufacturer’s installation instructions for the placement of individual smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
How do I make a lead paint abatement complaint?
Poisoning because of lead paint is a serious issue. If you suspect a lead paint hazard in your home or business, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau to learn about safe abatement procedures and complaint options. You can contact Fire Prevention via phone (707-778-4389), email ([email protected]) or in person at 22 Basset Street, adjacent to City Hall.
For more information about lead paint, go to the EPA’s web page on the topic.
What is a business license inspection and how do I schedule one?
As part of the business license process, the City’s Fire Prevention and Building Divisions need to inspect your business to ensure that you business meets minimum requirements for safety and emergency access. To schedule a business license inspection, send email to bizcheck@cityof petaluma.org.
You can prepare for the inspection by reviewing this checklist of items.
How do I make a smoke nuisance complaint?
Smoke nuisance complaints are handled by the Bay Area Air Quality Management Board (BAAQMD).
Is my house in a high fire hazard zone?
To find out whether your residence or business is located in a high fire hazard zone, review the City’s High Fire Hazard Severity Zone map.
How do I make a weed abatement complaint?
Fill out and submit the Weed Abatement Complaint form online. Or download the paper form then submit to the Fire Prevention Bureau in person or by mail (22 Basset Street), or via email to [email protected].
When do I need a fire department permit?
There are two types of fire department permits: Construction and Operational.
Construction permits are needed for the installation of fire protection systems (such as fire sprinklers) and high-piled storage systems and for construction that involves hazardous materials and processes.
Operational permits are required for certain business types or business activities, such as businesses involving hazardous materials or hazardous operations, day care and residential care facilities, tent installations, tire storage, and other uses.
To clarify whether you’ll need a permit and which kind you’ll need, contact Fire Prevention Bureau via email at [email protected] or by phone (707-778-4389).
