The Hoffman Estates Fire Department began in December 1956 as a volunteer department, funded by homeowner contributions and a fire department campaign. The official Hoffman Estates Fire Protection District was created on April 3, 1958. Over decades of community growth, the department transitioned from a fully volunteer model to having dedicated daytime staffing to improve coverage and response times. The department's early history includes significant fundraising efforts, the construction of its first permanent station in 1960, and a major fire in 1958 that highlighted the need for the department. 

Inception and Early Years (1956-1960s)

• 1956: 

  A volunteer fire department was formed, with homeowners contributing $25 each to purchase a small fire pumper and begin funding efforts. 

   
• 1957: 

  A fire department campaign was held to raise funds for a firehouse and equipment, with contributors displaying red posters. 

   
• 1958: 

  The official Hoffman Estates Fire Protection District was established on April 3rd. A tragic fire on December 3rd that damaged barns and threatened homes demonstrated the critical need for the growing department and led to calls for assistance from neighboring departments in Roselle, Palatine, and Mount Prospect. 

   
• 1960: 

  The first permanent, brick-and-mortar fire station, known as Station 21, was completed and dedicated in November, located on Flagstaff Lane. 

Transition to a municipal department (1974)

• December 1974: The Village of Hoffman Estates assumed responsibility for providing fire and medical services from the 
  Hoffman Estates Fire Protection District. This transfer allowed the village to control the fire department directly within its boundaries.
  
  
• 1975: The village hired its first full-time professional firefighters, beginning the transition away from a fully volunteer model. Five firefighters were hired in February, marking a pivotal moment in the department's professionalization. 

Growth and modernization (1979–present)

• 1979: St. Alexius Medical Center opened, significantly increasing the demand for emergency medical services in the village.