Exterior of a curved brick building with large glass windows displaying the emblem and text “Virginia Department of Fire Programs". Reflections show parked cars and trees, suggesting a landscaped area with nearby parking.

Who We Are

Committed to Fire Prevention, Safety and Training for the Commonwealth of Virginia

Learn More About VDFP Submit a Contact Us Inquiry

Virginia Department of Fire Programs

Since 1969, Virginia has been at the forefront of firefighter training, starting with the Fire Services Training section within the State Department of Education.

Later becoming part of the Division of Fire Services Training under the State Fire Commission and eventually the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP).

- VDFP is headquartered in Glen Allen, VA and has seven geographical boundaries with a training division chief and State Fire Marshal’s Office staff.
- VDFP is part of ten agencies under the Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security.
- VDFP administers an annual budget of $61 million and has over 90+ full–time staff, 17 part time staff and over 400 adjunct instructors who provide support and deliver our training programs through site-specific mobile training, at any of the regional training facilities or at locality training centers.

"Group of professionals collaborating around a white table, analyzing printed charts and graphs including pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, and radar charts. Hands are pointing to data, indicating active discussion. A laptop, calculator, and pens are visible, suggesting a business or financial meeting in a well-lit room with sunlight streaming in.

Administrative Services

Our administrative branch ensures the smooth operation of all VDFP activities.

VDFP’s administrative branch manages core functions including governance, finance, IT, HR and grants—providing stability, structure, service, strategy and support.

Apply For a Grant

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Training and Operations

Our Training and Operations Branch delivers certified programs for career and volunteer responders.

VDFP’s training branch provides essential instruction through regional chiefs and specialized fire service courses.

Explore Courses

Yellow caution tape reading “FIRE LINE DO NOT CROSS” stretches across a fire scene, marked with the Virginia State Fire Marshal emblem. Behind the tape, a damaged structure shows signs of charring and destruction, indicating an active investigation or restricted area due to fire-related hazards.

State Fire Marshal’s Office

Our State Fire Marshal’s Office promotes fire safety in Virginia through education, risk reduction and code enforcement.

SFMO conducts inspections, issues permits, manages RCIP and oversees VFMA—delivering consistency, compliance and prevention.

Learn More

Group of individuals in helmets and hazmat suits stand near a red mobile “Fire Investigation Lab.” In the foreground, a charred chair, white bucket, and burnt debris suggest a fire scene under analysis, likely part of a training or investigative exercise.

Virginia Fire Marshal Academy

The Virginia Fire Marshal Academy offers professional courses for public educators, fire inspectors and investigators, ensuring compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

View VFMA Schedule

Outdoor community event on a grassy field featuring a red tent labeled “Virginia Department of Fire Programs.” People gather around tables with informational materials, while Sparky the Fire Dog mascot interacts playfully with attendees. Umbrellas and casual foot traffic suggest a sunny or post-rain atmosphere focused on fire safety outreach.

Community Risk Reduction

Protecting Virginia citizens and fire service providers through advocacy, public education campaigns, technical assistance and research. CRR promotes best practices, identifies local risks, and conducts risk reduction assessments.

Find Resources

Elegant white two-story house with black shutters and columned entrance, surrounded by blooming pink tulips and a black fountain centerpiece. A fire truck with red and yellow chevron pattern and emergency equipment is partially visible on the right, suggesting a public safety presence in a residential setting.

Government Affairs Office

Liaises between the Fire and EMS community and key government entities, tracks relevant legislation and policy developments, oversees regulatory policy and serves as a liaison to the Virginia Fire Services Board.

See Recent Legislation

Services VDFP Provides

Managing the reporting of incidents and responses in Virginia to the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).
Supplying operational and technical support during emergencies. This includes assistance in the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) and on-site.
Protecting life and property by conducting fire safety inspections, issuing permits and ensuring compliance with fire safety codes and regulations.
Offering support and consultation to localities through fire and emergency medical services (EMS) studies, in collaboration with the Virginia Fire Services Board, Department of Forestry and Office of Emergency Medical Services.
Providing educational programs and resources to inform the public about fire prevention and safety practices.

Contact Us

Have questions about VDFP training, services or funding? Use our Contact Us form to submit your inquiry. Our team will connect you with the right staff member to ensure a timely and helpful response.