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Novato Fire Protection District
Novato Fire District MenuHistory
Brennan Spark Photography & Videography
In 2026, the Novato Fire Protection District proudly celebrates 100 years of service to our community. Since the District was officially established on July 6, 1926, generations of firefighters, employees, volunteers, and community members have helped shape the organization we are today. As we mark this centennial milestone, we invite you to explore our history through the video and learn how a group of volunteer firefighters evolved into a modern all-hazards emergency service agency dedicated to protecting the people of Novato. While much has changed over the past century, our commitment to serving this community remains as strong as ever.
The Novato Fire District was formed in 1926 following a request by the residents living in a 71 square mile area around the community of Novato. The Marin County Board of Supervisors established a commission on July 6, 1926, to oversee the organization. The District’s first commissioners were W. E. Cole, Chairman, L. Nave, Vice Chairman, and Dr. W. H. Busher, Secretary. Charles Kiser was appointed the first Fire Chief.
The first fire station was built at the intersection of Grant Avenue and Redwood Boulevard, which at the time was Highway 101.
The first fire engine was a 1923 Model T Ford. It was outfitted with a chemical tank, which was replaced one year later with a 160-gallon water tank and a small pump. The conversion was done by a local blacksmith whose shop on Grant Avenue is now known as Dr. Insomnia’s. The Model T was in service until 1939 when it was replaced by a 1938 Dodge Power Wagon.
The Model T was sold to a Sonoma County dairy, then resold to Bob Crandel, whose father was one of the original Novato Fire Volunteers in 1933. In 1976, the Model T was purchased by a Novato Fire District firefighter, Gene Fox. It has been owned by a Fireman’s Fund executive, has been restored, and was on display at the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company headquarters in Novato. It was donated to the Novato Fire District for preservation in late 2015.
Presently the District maintains five fire stations, employs 96 firefighters and administrative staff, protects 71 square miles and a population of more than 63,000.
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