The Scottsdale Fire Department (SFD) closed out 2025 with a series of landmark achievements that bolstered the city’s fire preparedness, emergency response, and community safety. Officials say the year’s progress reinforces Scottsdale’s position as a national leader in fire prevention and innovation.
A key focus throughout the year was reducing wildfire risk. The department completed fuel treatments across 64 acres and along more than 22 miles of roadway and preserve lands — including high-risk corridors in north Scottsdale and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. These efforts, supported by $176,500 in grant funding from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management’s Healthy Forest Initiative, were designed to reduce hazardous fuels, improve firefighter access, and lower the risk of major wildland fires near homes and critical infrastructure.
Chemical vegetation treatments were applied along 25 miles of roadways and at several trailheads and structures, while additional projects protected two major trailhead areas. By the end of 2025, 24 communities—representing about 5,600 homes—had earned Firewise certification, with several others actively working toward it. Firewise communities promote neighborhood-level wildfire prevention, particularly important in north Scottsdale’s high-risk zones.
“Scottsdale’s proactive approach to fire safety saves lives, protects property, and demonstrates what’s possible when a city invests in prevention and preparedness,” said City Manager Greg Caton.
Beyond wildfire mitigation, SFD reached several other milestones in 2025. The city opened a newly expanded Regional Training Center at its Public Safety Training Facility in January. The $33 million project, funded by city bonds, now serves both fire and police personnel across the region and has already graduated two recruit classes.
Scottsdale also marked the 40th anniversary of its pioneering fire sprinkler ordinance, adopted in 1985—the first of its kind nationwide to require sprinklers in all new single-family homes. The regulation remains a cornerstone of the city’s safety success.
In July, SFD celebrated its 20th anniversary while joining the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, a distinction shared by the nation’s largest and most influential fire departments.
Additional advancements included the September opening of Fire Station 612, located at Hayden Road and Mayo Boulevard. The $13.7 million facility enhances emergency coverage in northern Scottsdale with a full engine company, battalion unit, and specialized wildland equipment. In November, the department also expanded its municipal ambulance service, adding three new rescue units to improve emergency medical response and transport capacity.
“Prevention, training, and response all work hand in hand,” said Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “The strides we made in 2025 reflect our commitment to protecting Scottsdale—today and for years to come.”
For more information about Scottsdale Fire Department programs and safety initiatives, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “Fire.”
