Waterloo Fire & Rescue

Waterloo Fire Department is a 100% volunteer fire and rescue organization serving the Village of Waterloo, Nebraska, and surrounding areas. Its mission is to help keep the community safe through responsive service and practical training. Department officers provide hands-on training to members, preparing them to handle situations that may arise. Residents interested in supporting the department can learn about joining and submit a member application.

The department also provides information and access to burn permits for eligible residents of the Village of Waterloo and the Waterloo Rural Fire District. Permits can be registered for online, with a convenience fee, or obtained in person. They are required for open-air fires beyond recreational fire pits; barbecues and ordinary fire pits do not require one. Permitted materials are limited to wood, wood by-products such as cardboard and paper, and leaves, while nuisance fires that produce excessive black smoke are prohibited. The department shares updates about community events, impactful weather, and road closures through Facebook, and lists water rescue among its services.