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 Do I Know if There Is a Ban on Burning?
A burning ban legally prohibits outdoor burning. Bans are emergency measures, declared only when outdoor burning is deemed a significant threat to public safety.
There are two kinds of burning bans under SC State Law: a State Forester´s Burning Ban, declared by the director of the Forestry Commission, and a Governor´s Burning Ban, declared by the governor of South Carolina upon recommendation of the State Forester.
The State Forester´s Burning Ban prohibits starting any fire in or adjacent to “woodlands, brushlands, grasslands, ditchbanks, or hedgerows” (SC Code 48-35-50). This is generally interpreted to include all types of outdoor burning.
The Governor´s Burning Ban is less restrictive, making allowances for certain agricultural burning (SC Code 48-31-30).
In announcing a Burning Ban, the issuing authority will specify the area of South Carolina to which the restrictions apply. Neither the State Forester´s Ban nor the Governor´s Ban applies with the corporate limits of any town or city (SC Code 48-35-30 and 48-31-30).
Violation of either a State Forester´s Ban or a Governor´s Ban carries a fine of up to $200 for first offenses and at least $500 for second and subsequent offenses. Any burning to which a Ban applies also requires prior notification to the Forestry Commission, so ignorance of a declared Ban is not generally considered a viable legal defense.
NOTE: The Forestry Commission has issued 20 State Forester’s Burning Bans in the agency’s 90-year history. Please visit the South Carolina Forestry Commission’s website at https://www.scfc.gov/ or call them at 1-800-895-7062 with any questions.
Who Are Your Certifications Accredited Through?
All of our CPR classes are American Heart Association (AHA) certification courses. BLS Provider CPR, Heartsaver CPR AED, and First Aid completion cards are valid for 2 years after completing the course.
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.
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).
None of the Course Dates Work for Me — What Are My Options?
You can find additional class options through the American Heart Association’s course locator at Find a Course.
What Is the Shift Schedule?
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off. Shifts begin and end at 8:00 a.m.
If I’m Already Certified, Do I Still Need to Attend Recruit School?
If you hold current ProBoard, NFPQ, or IFSAC Firefighter I and II certifications, you will not need to attend Recruit School.
If not, you’ll be required to attend training through SCFA or BTFD, paid for by the District.
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.
Will the Fire Department Do an Equipment Display or Event Standby?
Yes, we will consider requests for events that are open to the public. To request our attendance—typically firefighters and a fire truck for school visits, neighborhood events, parades, and similar occasions—please complete the Public Event Request Form.
Please note:
- We are unable to participate in birthday parties or events that promote specific products, services, or businesses.
- The form must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the requested event date.
All requests are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.
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.
What Is the Starting Salary and Benefits?
Salary & Benefits
Starting Salary (as of May 2025):
- Firefighter I: $52,804.96
- Firefighter II / EMT: $57,625.20
- Promotions result in a minimum 5% salary increase
- All positions are overtime eligible
Benefits Overview
Bluffton Township Fire District offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Coverage
100% employer-paid health insurance for the employee. Affordable, competitively priced plans are available for spouses and families, including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Insurance options. - Retirement Benefits
Enrollment in the South Carolina Police Officers Retirement System (SC PORS), with additional contributions to the 1% Fund after completion of the probationary period. - Additional Benefits
- Employer-provided Life Insurance
- Deferred Compensation options (401(k)/457 plans)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support and resources for employees and their families
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.
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.
What Equipment Do I Need on Hand While Burning?
You must have a garden hose connected to a water supply or a fire extinguisher on-site to control or extinguish the fire if needed.
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.
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.
Will You Bring a Fire Truck to My Child’s Birthday Party?
Unfortunately no, we are not able to take our engines out of service for these types of events; our apparatus needs to be available to respond in the event of an emergency situation.
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.
How Can I Get a Copy of a Fire/Medical/Automobile Incident Report?
Complete the Incident / Investigation Report Request Form.
Please be aware that the report is not immediately available; once the Incident Report is ready for release, it can be e-mailed, mailed, faxed, or held at the station for you to pick up. Due to review and scheduling issues and to insure accuracy of the report, it may take up to 2 (two) weeks for the report to be made ready for release. Certain reports, such as reports of an investigative nature, may take many months to complete and a copy of said report will not be available until such time as the investigation is complete and finalized.
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.