[5] The district was established when community members reported being ignored by the fire departments who did not want to travel the long distance up the mountain, so voters took their security and protection into their own hands.

[6] It remained fully volunteer-run until 1960 when a switch was made to paid-call staff to provide 24-hour fire service.

[5] A five-member board of commissioners, made up by elected residents, oversees the Idyllwild Fire Protection District.

The Idyllwild fire department also staffs a medical director, EMS coordinator, and an administrative assistant.

The Idyllwild Fire Protection District operates in the San Jacinto Mountains of Riverside County.