About Local 479
The Tucson Fire Fighters Association, Local 479, is a proud chartered local of the International Association of Fire Fighters, representing more than 600 uniformed personnel across both the Tucson Fire Department and the Tucson Airport Authority Fire Department. With a membership rate exceeding 98 percent, Local 479 stands as one of the most unified locals in the country.
Our Department
The Tucson Fire Department is Arizona's second-largest municipal fire department, operating 22 fire stations throughout the region. The department deploys 24 engine companies, 7 ladder companies, and 17 paramedic companies, while maintaining specialized capabilities in heavy rescue, hazardous materials response, mass casualty operations, and mobile command. All training is conducted at a world-class, 158-acre public safety training academy — one of the finest facilities of its kind in the nation.
Our Community
Local 479 has a deep and lasting commitment to the community we serve. The association actively supports causes close to our members' hearts, including cancer research, child injury prevention, and burn treatment. We are also longtime, passionate supporters of the Muscular Dystrophy Association — whose national headquarters calls Tucson home — raising funds through Fill the Boot campaigns, community events, and year-round outreach.
Making a Difference
Each year, Local 479 hosts several signature fundraising events — including Shoots and Ladders, the SADFF Golf Tournament, the Fire Fighter Ball, and the Chili Cookoff — collectively raising more than $60,000 annually. These funds power our Adopt-A-Family program, which provides food, clothing, shelter, and gifts to more than 1,000 Southern Arizona families every holiday season.