What Others Are Asking
And What You Need to Know
Looking for clarity on common topics? You’re in the right place. Our FAQ archive compiles the most frequently asked questions from our community—covering everything from emergency response procedures and fire safety programs to permits, inspections, and community outreach. You can select a specific FAQ topic to view all related questions or use the search feature to find exactly what you need.
Can’t find your answer? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help clarify or provide the information you’re looking for.
How Can I Dispose of My Old Fire Extinguishers?
The Fire District does not recycle fire extinguishers, however, residents and business owners can recycle extinguishers with Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling by taking them to a nearby convenience center and depositing in the Household Hazardous waste area. Please notify an attendant that you have an extinguisher, and they will direct you to the proper area for placement.
For additional questions about safe recycling, please contact Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling at (843) 255-2736.
How Do I Request a Fire Inspection?
Please use this request form or contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 843-548-4353 to request a fire inspection.
Is There a Specific Time I’m Allowed to Burn?
Yes. In Bluffton: 9 AM to sunset (midnight for recreational/ceremonial fires). In Beaufort County: 9 AM to 3 PM, with no smoke permitted after sunset.
What Number Do I Call Before Burning?
Call the SC Forestry Commission hotline: 1-800-895-7062. You’ll hear a recorded message confirming whether it’s safe to burn that day.
There Is a Fire Hydrant Flowing Water on My Street. Will the Fire Department Come Shut It Off?
No, the fire department is not responsible for fire hydrants. Your water department or utility district is in charge of hydrants and there may be a reason why they’re flowing, such as testing or maintenance. Please contact your local water department. The most common water departments serving the area are BJWSA (843-987-9200), Callawassie Island (843-987-3800), Moss Creek (Water Oak Utility – 843-837-2321), and Hilton Head PSD#1 (843-681-5525).
Do You Offer Renewal Courses for Expired CPR Certifications?
We do not offer renewal-only CPR classes. Please register for and attend the full version of the course you require.
When Can I Expect to Be Hired?
The Bluffton Township Fire District conducts two recruitment cycles each year. Following each cycle, a list of qualified candidates is developed for selection into upcoming SC Fire Academy classes.
I Lost My CPR Card — How Can I Get a Replacement?
First, check your email inbox for messages from No-eccreply@heart.org or eCards@heart.org. If you can’t find it, visit AHA’s eCard Lookup. If unsuccessful, email cpr@blufftonfd.com with your full name and approximate course date. A $10 processing fee may apply.
Does the Fire Department Give Tours of the Fire Station?
Yes, we do give tours of the Fire Station for groups of kids and individuals. Use the Station Tour Request form to request a fire station tour with groups of more than 5 total. Smaller groups or individuals may tour the stations at any time if the crews are available. (All requests will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the Station Tour Request Form.
Where Can I Dispose of Old Medicine/Hazardous Materials?
The Bluffton Police Department offers a safe way for residents to discard old or unused prescription drugs. A drug drop box is located in the department’s lobby and allows the public to dispose of medications during business hours.
The Bluffton Police Department is located at 101 Progressive Street in Bluffton. It’s open Monday-Thursday 8 am – 5:30 pm, Friday 8 am – 1 pm.
Additional publicly accessible disposal locations include:
- Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office – 2001 Duke St., Beaufort SC
- Beaufort County Government Building – 4819 Bluffton Parkway 2nd Floor, Bluffton SC
- Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office – 70 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head SC
- CVS Bluffton – 1006 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton
- CVS Hilton Head Island – 10 Pope Ave. Hilton Hilton Head SC
- CVS Port Roya l- 1500 Ribaut Rd, Port Royal, SC
- Walgreens Okatie – 138 Okatie Center Blvd Okatie SC
- Walmart Pharmacy – 4 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910
- Ulmer Family Pharmacy – 68 Bluffton Rd #6 Bluffton
- Chelsea Medical Center – 719 Okatie Highway, Okatie SC
Do I Need a Permit to Burn in Bluffton or Beaufort County?
Yes. In the Town of Bluffton, you must register with the Fire District and receive a registration number. In unincorporated Beaufort County, you must notify the SC Forestry Commission before burning.
I Need to Perform Community Service; Can I Complete This at the Fire Department?
With proper documentation the Bluffton Township Fire District will be happy to help. Please contact our Operations Chief at 843-757-2800 ext. 7302 to discuss times and requirements.
My Certification Is Expiring Soon — Can I Schedule a One-on-One Class?
Due to instructor scheduling, we cannot accommodate last-minute, single-person sessions. We offer BLS and Heartsaver CPR classes twice monthly. Private group classes (7+ people) require a 3-week notice. View our course schedule or private course request page for more info.
Can Someone Come Visit Our Class to Teach Fire Safety to the Students?
Yes, we will come to visit a school. Use the Speaker Request Form to request a program about safety, careers, guest speakers, etc. Please complete the form in its entirety and submit it at least 14 days prior to your requested program event date. (All requests will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the Speaker Request Form.
What Are the Minimum Qualifications to Become a Firefighter?
To be considered for employment with the Bluffton Township Fire District, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Be eligible to work in the United States
- Fire and rescue experience is not required.
We hire both experienced and entry-level candidates depending on current department needs. If you’re hired without Firefighter I & II certifications, BTFD will pay for you to attend Recruit School.
Where Can I Dispose of Old American Flags?
You can dispose of old or worn U.S. flags at any Bluffton Township Fire District station.
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All BTFD stations have flag retirement receptacles located inside the public entrances where you can drop off your flag during regular hours.
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Headquarters Station 35 (357 Fording Island Rd., next to Saint Gregory’s Catholic Church) also has an outdoor drop-off bin available for your convenience at any time.
Collected flags are transferred to the Dennis J. Becker American Legion Post 205 in Bluffton, South Carolina, which ensures they are respectfully retired in accordance with proper flag etiquette.
Does the Fire Department Have a Room or Space to Hold Meetings?
Please complete our Facility Use Application. The application will not be finalized without a Certificate of Liability Insurance provided. Every attempt will be made to accommodate your request; however, please realize that there is very limited availability due to training and normal business functions.
How Can My Company Schedule On-Site CPR Training?
Visit Private CPR Course Requests for full requirements and detailed instructions for setting up private CPR training for your company or group.
Do You Offer First Aid Training?
Yes, we offer First Aid in a blended format. Complete the classroom portion online via the American Heart Association and bring your certificate for an in-person skills verification session. First Aid skills verification is held after our Heartsaver CPR AED classes. Learn more at First Aid Skills Verification.
Do You Offer CPR Classes?
We offer CPR courses each month, accredited through the American Heart Association. For course schedules, registration and a full CPR FAQ, please visit us here.