In 1898, following a devastating fire on Main Street that destroyed 12 buildings including the Presbyterian Church, the concept for the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department was born. The City Council initiated the required legislation, and by 1902, after drafting a constitution and by-laws, the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department was established. Initially, it consisted of three companies in Laurel: one at 8th and Montgomery, another at 5th and Montgomery, and the third on Washington Blvd near the Little Tavern. David M. Fischer served as the first Fire Chief.

The department consolidated its operations in 1935 at the former Phelps and Shaffer store on 9th and Montgomery. To accommodate its growth, in 1954, it relocated to the former Laurel Elementary School No. 1 across the street. As of today, the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department operates from its facility on the corner of Cherry Lane and Van Dusen Road, a move they made in October 1990. This current facility houses offices, a gym, a kitchen, meeting rooms, and bunk rooms for both male and female firefighters.