Frequently Asked Questions

Do you recharge our fire extinguisher at the station?

The Watertown Fire Department does not re-charge or re-certify fire extinguishers at our station. We recommend reaching out to a fire extinguisher service provider. Below is a list of known providers that service our area.

• Central Fire Protection 413 4th Ave NW, New Prague, MN 56071 Phone (952) 758-7261

• Nardini Fire 405 County Road E W Saint Paul, Minnesota 55126 Phone (651) 483-6631

• Simplex Grinnell 5400 Nathan Lane, Suite 100 Plymouth, MN 55442 Phone (763) 367-5000

• Summit Companies (Conway) 575 Minnehaha Ave. W. St. Paul, MN 55103 Phone (651) 251-1880

• LVC Companies 4200 W 76th St, Minneapolis, MN 55435 Phone (952) 835-4600

What are the limitations for recreational fires?

Many residents enjoy backyard campfires. Recreational fires are permitted within the city limits of Watertown without needing a burning permit. “Recreational fire” means a fire set for cooking, warming, or ceremonial purposes, which is not more than 3 feet in diameter or 3 feet by 3 feet square, nor more than 3 feet high and has had the ground surrounding the fire cleared of all combustible material. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of any building, structure or combustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a building or structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

When a fire is used for recreational purposes, it must be:

• Ignited with approved starter fuels using dry clean wood

• Producing little detectable smoke, odor or soot beyond the property line

• Conducted with an adult tending the fire at all times

• Extinguished completely prior to leaving the location

• Respecting weather conditions, neighbors, burning bans, and air quality so that nuisance health or safety hazards will not be created

How do I get a burn permit?

Burning Permits are required for any fire that is not a recreational fire. The fire chief can issue burn permits for properties within the city limits. You can call the station at 952-955-1135 to get this permit. If you live in one of the townships, you can use the MN DNR portal to issue and activate your permit. This site also contains valuable information about the current restrictions surrounding burning.

Can the Fire Department remove my structure for training?

Yes, if the structure is in good structural condition, the Training Division may be interested in using the structure for training of Firefighters. Typical charges assessed to the property owner can be up to $6,500. These training sessions are typically arranged at the fire department’s convenience.

Where should smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors be located in my home?

Smoke alarms need to be installed in every sleeping area/bedroom and on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide detectors need to be installed on every floor of the home and within 10 feet of sleeping areas/bedrooms.

Can the Firefighters ensure my child’s car seat is installed correctly?

Watertown Firefighters are not certified in car seat installation. If you are looking for more information on car seat installation, please contact our partners at Carver County Public Health.

Does the City of Watertown offer CPR and First Aid Classes for citizens?

The Fire Department does not offer medical training courses and instead recommends reaching out to Watertown Mayer Community Education. They have American Red Cross courses periodically throughout the year. A listing of their current offerings can be found here.