South Carolina Forestry Commission opens 2026 Volunteer Fire Assistance grants with new digital application

Volunteer fire departments across South Carolina will soon have access to vital grant funding to upgrade firefighting equipment, boost wildland response capabilities, and protect rural communities.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) announced that applications for the 2026 Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grant Program will officially open on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

Under the program, eligible volunteer fire departments can receive up to $7,500 in reimbursement for approved equipment purchases, personal protective gear, and essential operational supplies.

A Transition to Online Submissions

In a major change from previous grant cycles, the application process is moving entirely digital.

State forestry officials confirmed that paper application packets will no longer be mailed out to station houses by default. Instead, departments will complete and submit their proposals through a new online portal.

Volunteer departments with an active email address on file with the Forestry Commission will receive digital packets containing application instructions, eligibility criteria, and submission guidelines directly in their inboxes ahead of the launch.

Boosting Local Fire and Rescue Capabilities

Administered by the SCFC in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, the VFA grant program serves as a critical financial lifeline for rural and volunteer departments operating on tight municipal or district budgets.

The reimbursable funds help local agencies offset costs for wildland firefighting equipment, including:

• Brush truck skid units, portable tanks, and specialized pump systems.

• Wildland personal protective equipment (PPE), including Nomex gear, boots, and fire shelters.

• VHF two-way radios and field communication accessories to enhance mutual-aid coordination.

• Dry hydrant installation, maintenance, and water supply upgrades.

Key Program Dates and How to Apply

Volunteer fire departments interested in securing grant funding should note the following timeline:

• Applications Open: November 1, 2026

• Application Deadline: December 31, 2026

Once the submission window opens on November 1, departments can access the digital application form and program documentation directly at arcg.is/1XT4vC1. Additional agency information is available on the Forestry Commission website at scfc.gov.