What is Annexation?

Annexation is the process of adding a property into the Highlands Fire District (HFD).

Any property owner whose property is contiguous with any of the District borders may "opt in" and request that the District Governing Board amend the District’s boundaries to include their property and receive the full District services.

 

How Do I Know If My Property is in the District?

Highlands Fire District covers the communities of Kachina Village, Mountainaire, Forest Highlands, Pine Del and Lower Lake Mary.  If you are unsure whether your property is within Highlands Fire District boundaries, please contact us. We are happy to help confirm your status.

 

Why Consider Annexation?

Being part of the Highlands Fire District means:

• Emergency response from HFD personnel and equipment
• Fire prevention and risk reduction support
• Inclusion in long-term community planning and protection efforts
• Potential impacts to property insurance ratings (varies by provider)

Properties outside the district may still receive emergency response through mutual aid, but they are not formally part of the district.

What Does “Opting In” Mean?

District annexations are governed by Arizona Revised Statue §48-262. 

“Opting in” means that a property owner voluntarily requests to be included in the fire district.

If approved by the Highlands Fire District Board of Directors, the property becomes part of HFD, receives full district services, and is subject to the same tax structure as other properties within the district.

 

Annexation Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Submit a Request

Complete and submit the Annexation Request Form.

Step 2: Initial Review

HFD will review your request to confirm eligibility and gather property details.

Step 3: Board Consideration

The request is presented to the Highlands Fire District Governing Board for review and consideration at a public meeting.

Step 5: Final Decision

If approved  by the Highlands Fire District Governing Board, your property will be formally annexed into the district.

Step 6: Effective Date

Once finalized, your property will be included in district services and tax assessments moving forward. Highlands Fire District will formally notify and coordinate with Coconino County so the change can be recorded and taxed correctly.

 

Interested in Annexation?

If you would like to learn more about annexation or discuss your specific property, please contact us at info@highlandsfire.org. Our team is happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions.