Q: Where are the fire stations that serve my property?
A: Station 181 – Hwy 280/Doug Baker – 5487 Highway 280 South
Station 183 – Mt Laurel – 60 Manning Place
Station 184 – Rex Lake – 1960 Rex Lake Road
Station 185 – The Narrows – 145 Narrows Drive (Administration & Business Office)
Q: I know to call 911 for an emergency response. What numbers do I call to ask questions about billing, community education, inspections, etc.?
A: Our non-emergency numbers are:
205-991-6664 – Main
205-991-5266 – Business Office
Q: Why do I have to pay FD Service Fees? Doesn’t my county property tax cover all services?
A: As our District covers unincorporated areas of the county, we do not receive any funding from property taxes or sales taxes. The services provided by CVFD are funded primarily through annual service fees from our property owners and revenues from ambulance transport services.
Q: Are fire dues voluntary?
A: The District was created under an enabling act of the Alabama Legislature and currently operates under Act 99-245/HB340. Under this Act, all property owners in the District are assessed FD Service Fees annually to cover the expenses of operating the District. If not paid, CVFD has the same lien rights as property tax, which means nonpayment may cause foreclosure proceedings and a tax lien to be placed.
Q: When did the public have a chance to vote to approve the FD Service Fees changes?
A: The last community vote to amend the Schedule of Service Fees was in March 2023. The community approved an increase to
Q: What are some reasons that the costs for fire protection go up?
A: (link to article about the rising cost of trucks, equipment)
Q: How do I pay FD Service Fees online?
A: Yes, we are pleased to offer our new online Account Portal through our website www.cahabavalleyfire.org, designed to provide you with convenient access to your account information and the ability to manage your fire and emergency services fees. This portal simplifies the process of staying up to date with your account, making payments, and reviewing your payment history.
Q: Can I make partial payments?
A: As long as the balance is paid by September 30th, you may make as many small payments as needed.
Q: Can I set up a payment plan?
A: If you cannot have the balance paid by September 30th, please call the Business Office at (205) 991-5266 to arrange a payment agreement. A rebilling fee will be added in October, but once all agreed-upon payments are made promptly, it will be removed.
Q: Why do I receive a bill if my mortgage company escrows payments?
A: We always bill the property owner directly. We always recommend checking with your mortgage company annually before making a payment to see if your FD Service Fees are paid through your mortgage escrow.
Q: How do I request an assessment letter for real estate closings?
A: Email request billing@cahabavalleyfire.org. A $35 fee applies. Please include the complete property address, seller and purchaser information, or owner information if it is for refinance, and the scheduled closing date. Also include mailing address, if different than the property address.