Thornton Fire District's mission is to preserve life, property, and environment through providing exceptional services as an all risk response organization. As a San Joaquin County Special District, Thornton Fire works closely with the San Joaquin County Development Department, Fire Prevention Bureau and our mutual aid partners to provide safe living and working environments for the community.

The purpose of Fire Prevention is to educate the public and perform fire life safety inspections interpreting and enforcing applicable California Fire Code (CFC Title 19), Building code, San Joaquin County Code and local ordinances.

Operational and Construction Permits

Operational Fire Permits and Construction Permits are issued by the County Fire Warden. Applications are to be submitted to the San Joaquin County Development Department, Fire Prevention Bureau.  Call for information obtaining an operational or construction permit at 209-468-3380 Monday through Friday 8:00 am-12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Burn Permits 

Burn Permits are issued by San Joaquin County Air Pollution in Modesto.  Call for information on burning and obtaining a burn permit at 800-665-2876 seven days a week between the hours of 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and press #2 to get a real person.  Only agricultural products may be burned on designated burn days in San Joaquin County.