KPFZ began as a pirate radio station in Lucerne in 1996, broadcasting in a limited fashion (weekends, and evenings mostly).
Through grass root efforts, the pirate station was granted an FCC low-power license in 2001.
The inspiration for these call letters came from Pacifica Radio network's listener-supported stations such as KPFA.
The founders, and volunteers of KPFZ and their collective dream of a full power localized media outlet, concentrating on issues affecting Lake County residents, giving a voice to minorities in the county, and commercial free music had been realized.
resident Roberto Lozano, "Eclectic Echoes" hosted by local retired jr. high school principal Tim Hoff.