Rural Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) Assistance Program (HB 2604)

Funding Approvals - Funding Approvals - Dec. 7, 2009 

SPECIAL NOTICE: TEEX Training Tuition Grant (Dec. 11, 2009)

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Changes to the HB 2604 Grant Program (Sept. 1, 2009)

Application for Rural Fire Defense Assistance

SPECIAL NOTICE: NIMS Compliance- Federal Grant Eligibility

Created by the 77th Texas Legislature (HB 2604) the Rural VFD Assistance Program provides $23 million per year in grants for equipment and training. The Texas Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program is a cost-share program funded by the Texas State Legislature. It provides funding to rural volunteer fire departments for the acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, county fire radio system components, dry-hydrants, computer systems and firefighter training. Approximately $23 million is distributed annually under the program.

Who is eligible?
Chartered, non-profit volunteer fire department operated by its members is eligible. Any part-paid/part-volunteer fire department is also eligible provided the number of paid members is 20 or less.

What is eligible for cost-share assistance?

How to apply

Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program equipment cost-share rates

Suggested specifications - Mid-size CAFS

Minimum standards and specifications for firefighting vehicles

Minimum standards for radio communications equipment

Training Tuition Guidelines

Historical funding summaries