Skip to main content

History

 

Community Roots

Liberty Fire District traces its beginnings to October 23, 1981, when the Liberty Volunteer Fire Department was established by community members dedicated to protecting their neighbors and local businesses.

The department’s early years were shaped by limited resources and the commitment of volunteers. Their service established the foundation for the organization that continues today.

Kings Lake Road Station

In November 1988, property was purchased on Kings Lake Road for a fire station.

The station originally consisted of two apparatus bays and was later expanded to four bays. The original construction and opening dates, along with the date of the expansion, are still being researched.

The Kings Lake Road location continues to serve the District as its South Station.

Establishment as an Independent Special District

On July 16, 2003, Chapter 2003-384, Laws of Florida, established Liberty Fire District as an independent special fire control district.

The legislation created the District’s governmental charter and provided for a Board of Fire Commissioners, public funding authority, and responsibilities for fire protection and related services.

This change established a formal governmental structure while preserving the department’s volunteer foundation.

Headquarters Station on U.S. Highway 90

The District purchased property on U.S. Highway 90 in 2007. In 2013, a new station was constructed with support from a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant.

The facility provided three double-depth apparatus bays, administrative offices, firefighter living accommodations, and a kitchen.

Situated on approximately five acres, the property also provided space for potential future expansion and training facilities. The location serves as the District’s Headquarters.

Planning for Northern Coverage

In 2021, the District purchased 5.15 acres at Wyckoff Road and U.S. Highway 331 North for a future station serving the northern portion of the District.

The purchase secured a location for future development as the District plans for community growth and emergency service needs.

Continuing the Volunteer Tradition

Through the years, Liberty’s members have contributed their time and skills to emergency response, training, equipment maintenance, and community service.

The District continues that tradition through fire protection, emergency medical first response, rescue services, and fire prevention education. Cooperation with neighboring agencies helps provide additional resources when emergencies require them.

Looking Ahead

As our community’s needs evolve, Liberty Fire District remains focused on training, operational readiness, responsible stewardship, and service to the public.

Our history is built on the contributions of volunteers and the community members who support them. That commitment remains reflected in our motto:

“Operated by Volunteers”

Help Preserve Our History

Do you have historical photographs, department records, newspaper articles, or memories of Liberty’s early years?

We welcome information that can help document the people, equipment, stations, and milestones that shaped the District. We are particularly interested in records identifying when the Kings Lake Road station opened and when it expanded from two bays to four.

Please contact us before delivering original materials.

Email: info@LibertyFireDistrictFL.gov
Phone: 850-892-5833
Online: Contact Us