Fire & Rescue

Emergency fire protection and emergency medical response in the City of Buena Vista are provided through two dedicated volunteer organizations: the Buena Vista Fire Department and the Buena Vista Rescue Squad. Both departments are made up of trained volunteers who generously give their time to serve the community. Through emergency response, public safety support, and community outreach, these volunteers play a critical role in protecting lives and property throughout Buena Vista.

Residents interested in supporting these organizations, whether through volunteering, training, or community support, are encouraged to reach out using the contact information listed below.

Buena Vista Fire Department

Physical Address: 2010 Sycamore Ave. Buena Vista, VA 24416
Department Phone: (540) 261-2390
Department Fax: (540) 261-3465

Fire Chief: John Rowsey
Email: rowsey_949@yahoo.com

For Event Hall rental inquiries, please contact: (540) 817-4889

Smoke Detector Program

Working fire alarms are an essential part of your home. Your local fire station is available to check over your smoke alarms; ensuring in-date, operational readiness, and proper placement.

Contact:
Jason Snider, Deputy Chief
Email: jsnider@rockbridgecountyva.gov
Phone: (540) 817-4889

Burn Permits

The City of Buena Vista requires a permit for all open burning within the City limits. All requests should be directed to Clerk of Council, Sarah Burch, at least 48 hours prior to the requested burn date.

Applicants must provide the following details at the time of request:

• Location of the burn
• Requested date(s) of the burn
• Name of the individual responsible for monitoring the burn and completing cleanup

All Burn Permits require review and approval by both the Fire Chief and City Manager. Permits are not valid unless fully approved and issued by the City.

Restrictions and Conditions:

• Burning is only permitted at the approved location for the approved date(s)
• Burning is only permitted when wind speeds are less than 12 knots
• Burn Permits will not be issued during local or regional burn bans
• The issued Permit must be displayed in a conspicuous location at the burn site at all times during the burn
• Applicants are responsible for complying with all applicable safety requirements and regulations

Failure to comply with permit requirements or safety conditions may result in revocation of the permit and/or enforcement action.

To obtain a burn permit, contact:
Sarah Burch, Clerk of Council
Email: sarah.burch@buenavistava.gov
Phone: (540) 261-8600
In Person: 2nd Floor of the Municipal Building, 2039 Sycamore Ave. Buena Vista, VA 24416

Buena Vista Rescue Squad

Physical Address: 2309 Sycamore Ave. Buena Vista, VA 24416
Department Phone: (540) 261-1719

Founded in 1941, the Buena Vista Rescue Squad has served the community for more than 80 years with a steadfast commitment to excellence in emergency medical care. Originally organized as a volunteer force, the squad has grown into a fully staffed, career-based agency while retaining strong ties to volunteerism and continuing to welcome individuals for both EMS and non‑EMS support roles.

The squad provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) care around the clock, with a Paramedic and/or Advanced EMT on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring the highest level of prehospital care whenever it is needed. The organization maintains modern, state‑of‑the‑art equipment and operates a fleet of three ambulances, including a newest unit placed in service in 2025.

The Buena Vista Rescue Squad’s mission remains unchanged since 1941: to serve the community with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication.