The Sonoma Valley Fire District's Fire Prevention Section strives to provide a safe community for the citizens and visitors Agua Caliente, Boyes Hot Springs, City of Sonoma, Diamond-A, El Verano, Fetters Hot Springs, Glen Ellen, Mayacamas, Temelec, and Seven Flags by applying the principles of engineering, enforcement, and education. The Department utilizes applicable international, state and local fire codes, regulations, and standards to protect property from the hazards of fire, explosion, or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings and ensure firefighter and emergency responder safety during emergency operations. We also coordinate fire and life safety review of potential incoming projects, regular commercial occupancy inspections, education and outreach to at-risk populations in our community, as well as public information and fire investigations.

The Fire Prevention Section ensures that the requirements of the California Fire Code and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards are engineered into future projects in our community. The prevention staff conducts plan reviews and approvals as well as providing technical expertise to developers, architects, contractors, the internal community development team, and our operational personnel. The plan review process is critical to ensure that all pertinent updated codes are applied to new and remodeled buildings to provide for life safety of the occupants.

The Prevention Section also oversees a large use of the City of Sonoma’s outdoor facilities for temporary special events during the summer months. Prevention staff coordinates life safety reviews and inspections of these events to ensure public safety at large public gatherings including fairs, concerts, sporting events, and festivals. They also inspect and issue permits related to outdoor cooking, trade shows, and other high-profile events where tents are in place.

Fire Investigations are a crucial component of closing the loop after a fire occurs. The Investigation can determine arson or accident, equipment failure, or act of God. If it is equipment failure, it can be reported to National Agencies to determine if in fact there is faulty equipment causing fires so that equipment can be recalled. Also, if there is a pattern, it can be investigated further.