Carmel Highlands is a proactive, progressive Fire District providing a maximum level of service and protection to our community through a contract with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).  The District provides a high level of fire protection and emergency paramedic medical services to approximately 1,075 people throughout 9 square miles in the coastal area south of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Cypress Fire Protection District.

The District was formed in 1932. Through its contract with CAL FIRE, the District currently receives staffing services of 13 full-time staff. The District works closely with two adjacent districts - the Cypress FPD and the Pebble Beach Community Services District - that are also staffed by CAL FIRE. These three special districts operate what is essentially a seamless regional fire department. The arrangement has been formed through cost sharing agreements, without the formality or bureaucracy of a joint powers agreement or consolidation. Each district funds the level of station staffing that they approve, and all three share fire command, fire prevention, training, and support staff functions.

The District received 285 calls for service in 2021. The District has an ISO Public Protection Classification of 2 within five road miles of a fire station where there is a credible water source for fighting fires. The District provides fire protection, technical rescue, basic life support (EMT), and advanced life support (paramedic) services. Board meetings are open and accessible and are publicly noticed in accordance with the Brown Act.