Fire Service Resiliency Project

Update: October 28, 2026

At its October 28, 2026 meeting, the SLRD Board adopted a new framework for fire service governance and delivery., building on recommendations identified through fire service reviews conducted in 2013 and 2024, which highlighted opportunities to strengthen service delivery models, support rural fire departments and modernize governance structures.

The newly adopted bylaw and policy provide greater clarity around roles, responsibilities, service levels, training expectations, risk management and operational accountability for fire services funded, in part, through service area requisitions. Together, they establish a foundation for more consistent and sustainable fire protection services while recognizing the unique challenges and realities faced by rural and volunteer-based departments.

Next steps include entering into agreements with societies, continuing to work with society fire departments to enhance cooperation and coordination between organizations and to help develop improved region-wide fire service efficiencies. With the policy, bylaw, and administrative framework established, SLRD staff can begin engaging with additional community fire protection organizations to better understand their communities'  fire protection priorities and desired service levels, and explore opportunities to support these objectives, subject to staff capacity and available resources.

The item was presented at the SLRD Board meeting on October 28, 2026.

Background

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) is undertaking a Fire Service Resiliency Project to address existing gaps in policy and governance, explore future models for delivering fire services and collaborate directly with fire services operated by third-party, not-for-profit organizations to help support resilient, sustainable and compliant operations. 

The SLRD seeks to establish a clear, consistent and accountable fire service governance framework that supports safe, effective and sustainable fire protection across diverse communities. 

The 2013 and 2024 fire services reviews previously conducted by the SLRD identified opportunities to enhance the fire services across the region, emphasizing the need for clear service delivery frameworks, increased support for rural areas, and improved policy structures. There remains a significant divide between two distinct service models: 

• fire departments formally established under SLRD oversight (currently the Britannia Beach Volunteer Fire Department and the Garibaldi Volunteer Fire Department); and 
• independently-managed fire protection services, many of which are operated by local societies in rural or remote areas.

The Fire Services Resiliency Project seeks to clarify what constitutes a properly established fire service within the SLRD and to develop governance tools such as updated policies, bylaws and service agreements that reflect the priorities of ratepayers while ensuring safe working environments for volunteers. 

With regard to independently-managed fire protection services, initial focus for this project will be on the communities of Gun Lake and Bralorne in Electoral Area A and Birken and Pemberton Meadows in Electoral Area C.

Ultimately, this work will strengthen community trust, enhance fire safety and lay the foundation for consistent service delivery across the SLRD’s geographically and culturally diverse landscape. 
A key outcome of this work is the practical implementation of updated policies, bylaws and service agreements. 

Project updates will be shared on this page.

If your question isn't answered below please email info@slrd.bc.ca.