Donating a Structure

Donating a Structure to Boise Fire

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What types of structures will Boise Fire accept for training purposes?

Boise Fire accepts residential and commercial buildings that are structurally sound and support the training goals of the Fire Department. Mobile homes are not typically used by Boise Fire for training.

What types of training will Boise Fire conduct in a donated structure?

Boise Fire conducts destructive training that could consist of forcible entry, search and rescue, hose advancement, water application, horizontal and vertical ventilation, wall breaching, and live fire training.

How soon can Boise Fire use my donated structure for training?

The type of training Boise Fire conducts in a structure will dictate how soon it can be utilized. A property that will be used for search, forcible entry, and ventilation training could be used within 1 to 2 weeks of the initial inspection. If the property is used for live fire training, it can take up to 10 weeks from the initial inspection.

Can Boise Fire burn my donated structure?

The decision to burn a structure is based on numerous factors including, but not limited to the presence of asbestos, the distance to the nearest fire hydrant, the proximity to other structures, utilities or other critical infrastructure, and if the training would require major public roads to be closed.

Can Boise Fire burn my donated structure down upon the completion of destructive training?

Yes, Boise Fire can and does demolish property by fire following training. Typically, these are single family residential structures that are used for training over several days and burned to the ground upon the completion of the training. The entire process can take up to 10 weeks from initial inspection.

What documentation is required to train in my donated structure?

  • Proof of ownership (title report)
  • Release of Liability Agreement
  • An asbestos survey with laboratory results showing there is no asbestos containing material present in the structure.

If considering live fire training:

  • If asbestos was present, the owner must provide proof of abatement of all asbestos containing material
  • Demolition permit and bond - Boise City Public Works
  • EPA notification postmarked 10 working days prior to burn-down – Submitted to EPA by Boise Fire

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