CA AB3174

Amends Government Code Section 38611 to require both general law cities and charter cities to establish a fire department under the charge of a trained fire chief.

Allows cities to staff fire departments with paid firefighters, volunteer companies, or a combination thereof, with compensation set by the legislative body.

Exempts cities from the fire department requirement if they are located within the boundaries of an established fire protection district.

Classifies this as a state-mandated local program but waives state reimbursement obligations because local agencies have authority to levy service charges, fees, or assessments to fund the mandate.