KCFD to Assume Fire and Rescue Services in California City
KERN COUNTY, Calif. | The Kern County Fire Department (KCFD) is honored to announce that California City officials have voted to transition the city’s fire and rescue services to KCFD through a formal contract agreement, which the Kern County Board of Supervisors approved at the December 16, 2025, board meeting. Beginning January 1, 2026, KCFD will assume authority for providing fire protection, emergency medical response, and rescue services within California City. This decision follows a series of thorough, collaborative, and positive discussions between California City leadership, Kern County officials, and both fire departments. California City firefighters and Kern County Firefighters Local 1301 were actively consulted throughout the process and have expressed strong support and optimism for the transition. For decades, the California City Fire Department and KCFD have maintained a close working relationship. The two agencies have partnered on countless emergency responses and, in prior years, have even conducted joint firefighter academies to train new recruits together. Additionally, the Kern County Emergency Communications Center has long provided dispatching services for California City’s emergency calls, meaning an important component of operational consistency is already in place. California City’s decision aligns with a trend seen across Kern County, where many incorporated cities have transitioned from stand-alone municipal fire departments to contracted service with KCFD. In each case, the result has been greater uniformity, efficiency, and coordination across emergency operations. “Our mission has always been to protect the communities we serve. For many years, our firefighters have responded, trained, and collaborated closely with California City personnel. We are excited to continue that commitment by now serving the community directly.” – Kern County Fire Chief Aaron Duncan. KCFD is committed to ensuring a smooth, professional transition and to providing California City with the highest standards of fire and rescue service