About Us
About Us
The Central Marin Fire Department (CMFD) is a consolidated fire agency formed through a Joint Powers Agreement between the Town of Corte Madera and the City of Larkspur in Marin County, California. Officially established in 2018, CMFD represents a culmination of over a century of dedicated fire protection services in the region.
Our Mission
Our mission is to contribute to a safe, healthy, and vibrant community through effective and efficient all-hazards fire suppression, fire prevention, and advanced medical life support services, utilizing the resources available to us.
Our History
The roots of CMFD trace back to the early 20th century, with both Corte Madera and Larkspur establishing volunteer fire departments to serve their growing communities.
In 1908, Corte Madera formed a vigorous volunteer fire department equipped with a chemical engine and two hose carts. By 1916, they acquired their first motorized fire truck, a Chevrolet Pope Hartford, enhancing their firefighting capabilities. The department continued to evolve, and in 1930, volunteers raised funds to build a new fire station to house their equipment, providing comprehensive fire protection for the town for the next four decades.
Larkspur's fire protection history is equally rich. Incorporated in 1913, the Larkspur Volunteer Fire Department became a central figure in the community. They organized the renowned "Rose Bowl" dances, which funded the purchase of advanced firefighting equipment and the construction of a fire station. By 1947, the volunteers had fully financed the department's operations, and in 1957, they donated $500,000 worth of equipment to the city.
Recognizing the benefits of collaboration, Corte Madera and Larkspur began sharing fire services in the 1970s. This partnership deepened over the years, leading to the formation of the Central Marin Fire Authority in 2018. The consolidation aimed to enhance fire protection, improve efficiency, and maintain the small-town character of both communities.
Our Community
CMFD serves the communities of Corte Madera, Larkspur (including incorporated Greenbrae), and several areas of County Service Area (CSA) 31, such as the Greenbrae Boardwalk, Lucky Drive, and San Quentin Village. Nestled between the hills of Mt. Tamalpais and the shores of the San Francisco Bay, these neighborhoods benefit from CMFD's comprehensive emergency services.
Our department operates four strategically located fire stations, staffed by dedicated professionals trained in fire suppression, emergency medical services, and disaster response. We are committed to preserving life, property, and the environment through proactive community engagement and continuous improvement.
For more information about our history, please visit our History Page.