Pasadena Measure PFD: How the Proposed 19-Cent-Per-Square-Foot Fire Tax Would Work

PASADENA — October 26, 2026. Pasadena voters will decide Measure PFD on November 3. The proposal would impose a dedicated annual special tax of 19 cents per square foot of improved property for fire services, paramedics, 911 response and wildfire preparedness, according to the city’s published explanatory materials.

How much would a household pay?

Using the city’s example, a residential property with 1,600 square feet of taxable improvements would pay about $304 per year, or $25.33 per month when averaged over a year. This is a tax on improved property area, not an additional 19% sales tax or a charge calculated solely from the market price of the home. Owners should verify the exact calculation and exemptions for their own parcel.

What revenues are projected?

Pasadena estimates roughly $22.1 million in yearly proceeds, restricted to fire protection, emergency medical response and related preparedness needs. The city has identified possible priorities such as replacing Fire Stations 33 and 37, a firefighter training center, additional personnel and equipment, wildfire brush clearance and emergency readiness. Actual allocation decisions would remain subject to City Council’s public budget process.

Duration, audits and exemptions

The measure would expire after 14 years and does not include an automatic annual cost-of-living increase. City materials describe annual independent audits and public reporting. Certain property categories and households may qualify for exemptions, including specified low-income seniors, eligible government or religious/community-service property, people receiving senior or disability utility-tax exemptions, and households below applicable HUD very-low-income limits. Applicants must check the specific statutory conditions before assuming an exemption.

What voters are deciding

A yes vote would authorize the proposed special tax; a no vote would reject it. This report presents the city’s estimates and descriptions and makes no voting recommendation. It does not imply that every proposed fire station project will be fully financed or built on a particular date.

Official sources: Pasadena’s October 1 Measure PFD cost and exemption guide, October 8 duration and accountability guidance and October 15 planning timeline. Check the actual measure and impartial analysis for legally controlling terms.

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