Nevada City, Calif. – Effective July 15, 2026, the Nevada County Consolidated Fire District and Ophir Hill Fire Protection District are pleased to announce a collaborative consolidation process approved by the Nevada County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo). Nevada County Consolidated Fire District has assumed the responsibility for continuing fire and emergency medical services for the residents residing in the Ophir Hill community.
This milestone has been achieved through a multi-year collaboration between the staff and elected Board of Directors from both districts to strengthen emergency response capabilities, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure the continued delivery of exceptional fire protection and emergency medical services to the communities they both proudly serve. This consolidation now covers approximately 160 square miles in western Nevada County, providing service to just over 37,000 residents with two personnel 24/7 at five staffed stations, located throughout the newly consolidated district.
For over 70 years, Ophir Hill Fire Protection District has built a legacy of service founded on dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. This consolidation reflects a shared vision for the future—one that preserves those traditions while positioning both organizations to meet the evolving needs of the communities they serve as well as the dynamic changes in the fire service.
With this consolidation, residents of the Ophir Hill community will receive enhanced fire protection and emergency medical services through the dedicated, around-the-clock staffing of two full-time firefighters at Station 52. In addition, the community will benefit from the support of an on-duty Battalion Chief, dedicated fleet maintenance personnel, Fire Marshal, and highly trained technical rescue teams. These expanded resources significantly enhance the District’s emergency response capabilities and provide Ophir Hill residents with the professional level of service they deserve and can continue to rely on for years to come.
This consolidation reflects a shared belief that thoughtful collaboration strengthens public safety. By combining our experience, resources, and expertise where appropriate, the districts are better positioned to address future funding challenges, can better support our firefighters with improved levels of staffing all while continuing to the mission to protect lives and property with excellence and enhanced levels of service.
Nevada County Consolidated Fire District would like to thank the Board of Directors from both districts and extend their sincere appreciation to the employees, community partners, and residents for their continued trust and support in this long process.
Looking ahead, Nevada County Consolidated Fire District remains focused on our mission – to provide the highest level of emergency services to our community by valuing our members, promoting positive leadership, and dedicating ourselves to excellence.