Print this page

The Fire Prevention Division is a critical component of the Porterville Fire Department's effort to improve the lives of the City residents by preventing fires and reducing the impact of fires that occur. Under the supervision of the Fire Marshal, the mission of the Fire Prevention Division is to prevent or limit the occurrence of fire incidences, to make sure buildings are safe to occupy, to ensure proper egress is always available, to make certain fire protection systems are in place and maintained, and effectively utilize the principles of engineering, education and enforcement to protect our citizens, our workplace, our homes and our environment from the ravages of fire.

Fire and Life Safety Inspections

The Division reviews all new commercial building plans prior to permits being issued. A fire  inspector works with all City Departments to ensure all building plans comply with national, state and local  codes. A fire inspector inspects new construction sites to ensure that the final product reflects the design criteria on approved building plans.  The fire inspector tests all fire protection, smoke evacuation and fire alarm systems to ensure they are functional and meet fire code compliance. A certificate of occupancy (CO) or completion is not issued until all fire and building inspections have passed. Once a CO has been issued, fire inspectors continue to conduct annual inspections to ensure compliance is maintained.

Fire Investigation Unit

Another important function of the Fire Prevention Division is the investigation of fires to determine the origin and cause. The Prevention Division has established a Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) for that purpose. The FIU is staffed with one full time fire investigator and three on-call fire investigators. The Fire investigation unit professionally and comprehensively investigate fires to determine origin and cause, for the purpose of effectively impacting fire incident frequency, monetary loss, fire related injuries and deaths, and criminal arrest of persons responsible for arson. All Investigators assigned to the unit are peace officers pursuant to penal code section 830.37 and possess the powers of arrest. To report an arson fire please call 559-782-7469 or click here MyPorterville. 

Code Enforcement

The Prevention Division is responsible for enforcement of all codes adopted by the city council contained in the Municipal Code. Under direction of the Fire Marshal this unit investigates violations of housing, zoning, weed abatement and all Codes specifically designed to address blight, nuisances, and to maintain a clean environment for all citizens in our community. We work to achieve voluntary compliance through notification and education. When necessary, we use legal procedures including boarding up structures, removing junk cars, rubbish, civil citations and the demolition of dangerous buildings. Our goal is to maintain and improve property values and the quality of life for residents, visitors and business owners.

Why Enforce City Codes?

• Help in the fight to reduce crime and improve the quality of life.
• Protect health and safety
• Help maintain property values
• Prevent the physical and aesthetic deterioration of our community
• Enhance, maintain, and develop business districts to foster economic growth

How You Can Help!

• Keep all property free of trash, debris and overgrown, dead or unmanaged landscaping
• Fence or secure properties that might attract trespassers or vandals
• Keep grounds and structures clean and tidy
• Do not tolerate illicit activity
• Report violations and nuisances

To file a complaint please provide specific and detailed information, including exact location or address and a complete description of the violation, click here, MyPorterville. All information provided is kept confidential. You may call the Code Enforcement Unit of the Porterville Fire Department with any questions at (559) 782-7526 weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.