Oklahoma Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grant

The Oklahoma Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grant supports rural fire departments in communities with populations under 10,000. Funded by the Oklahoma Legislature, this program reimburses 80% of eligible costs for firefighting equipment and construction projects. Legal entities such as towns and fire departments can apply, with specific funding limits for fire station construction and equipment purchases. The initiative aims to enhance fire protection services in rural areas, ensuring their operational readiness and safety.

Annually OFS distributes funding to rural fire departments serving communities with populations less than 10,000 that depend either fully or partially on volunteer firefighters. These grants are authorized by Governor Kevin Stitt and funded by the Oklahoma Legislature. Grant funds can be used for purchasing items such as firefighting equipment, insurance premiums, equipment maintenance and personal protective gear. For more details on Oklahoma’s Operational grants, such as how a department becomes eligible, we have prepared an OFS Fire Note.
Oklahoma’s Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grant program provides funding to rural fire departments serving a population of less than 10,000 for rural fire department equipment purchases or construction. The grants provide reimbursement of 80% of the total amount of the project. Grant recipients receive reimbursement only after the purchase or construction costs have been paid by the recipient.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are legal entities (cities, towns, fire departments or districts) under a population level of 10,000.Funding limits per application are:Fire Station Construction: $30,000 Limit of State Funds for fire station construction
Fire Equipment: $20,000 Limit of State Funds for purchase of fire equipmentGrant amounts may be claimed only on a reimbursement basis; 80% of expenses will be reimbursed up to the grant award amount.

Ineligibility

Communities imposing strict boundary limits, which exclude rural residences logically part of the community, or using strict subscription response systems will not be eligible for funds under this program.Purchases prior to the State Purchase Order date will not be eligible for this grant.