The Fire Protection Districts Principle Enabling Act, enacted in California in 1949, provides the legal foundation for the creation and operation of fire protection districts, particularly in rural or unincorporated areas. The act allows local communities to form districts to deliver fire and emergency services, granting these districts the authority to levy taxes, issue bonds, and elect governing boards. It also outlines the procedures for establishing fire districts, managing their finances, and ensuring they provide adequate fire protection services. The act is designed to help communities efficiently manage fire protection services in areas that are not served by municipal fire departments.

California State Law

• Health and Safety Code §13800 et seq.
• Powers and Functions: Provide fire protection and other emergency services.
• Formation: Any territory, whether incorporated or unincorporated whether contiguous or noncontiguous, may be included.
• May be 3, 5, 7, 9 or 11 Directors (not to exceed 11), elected by resident voters to 4 year terms or appointed by the Board of Supervisors (and City Council where applicable) to fixed 4 year terms