Type 3 Wildland Fire Apparatus

The State of California Department of General Services, Procurement Division (DGS-PD) is conducting a one-time acquisition for 15 Type 3 Wildland Fire Apparatus for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The procurement seeks a comprehensive fire apparatus with stringent technical specifications, including a 4x4 chassis with a Cummins L-9 diesel engine, 500-gallon polypropylene booster tank, specialized fire pump, and foam proportioning systems. Bidders must provide a fully customized emergency response vehicle meeting NFPA 1901 and 1906 standards, with specific requirements for chassis, cab, electrical components, emergency lighting, and body construction. The apparatus must be painted in CAL FIRE Red with a white roof and include detailed lettering and striping specifications. Key deliverables include a prototype to be completed within 272 calendar days after the preconstruction conference, with total delivery of all units to be completed within 392 calendar days after purchase order receipt. The bid's due date is August 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM PT, with a non-mandatory bidders' conference scheduled for July 23, 2025. Award will be made on an "All or None" basis to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The solicitation includes several socio-economic program opportunities, specifically targeting Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), Small Business, and Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) programs. Bidders must provide California Secretary of State business numbers, retailer's seller permit numbers, and complete a comprehensive narrative response detailing business credentials and preferences. The procurement allows for alternative brand equipment submissions through a structured listing process, with vendors required to demonstrate equivalency or superiority to referenced brands. Bidders must submit detailed technical documentation, customer references, and meet specific licensing and certification requirements. The contract includes a robust 10-year general warranty and requires vendors to have service facility locations and distribution plans. While specific total contract value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive technical specifications and requirement for 15 custom-built apparatus suggest a high-value procurement. Vendors must also disclose international business activities and potential use of generative AI in contract performance, indicating a thorough vetting process for potential contractors.