Ambulance Ordinance

Ambulance Ordinance graphic

The Ambulance Ordinance (San Diego County Code of Regulatory Ordinances, Title 6, Division 10) regulates ambulances, air ambulances, and non-emergency medical transportation services. The Ambulance Ordinance sets operational, administrative, and other standards for these service providers.

The County of San Diego EMS Section issues annual permits to:

  • ambulance companies
  • critical care transport providers
  • air ambulance services
  • non-emergency medical transportation services (e.g., wheelchair vans, gurney vans, and ambulettes)

The annual permit process involves reviewing service requirements, such as vehicle and equipment inspections.


Ambulance and medical transport providers must obtain a County of San Diego permit before offering, advertising, or providing ambulance or medical transport services within San Diego County.

 

Regulatory Requirement Exemptions

 

Critical Care Transport (CCT) Providers

 

CoSD LEMSIS
Agency permitting processes are handled online through the CoSD Local EMS Information System (LEMSIS). More information on CoSD LEMSIS may be found at the CoSD LEMSIS informational site. 

The LEMSIS License Management Portal may be accessed here. All permit applications, service administrative forms, and personnel, fleet, and CAD updates are processed within the LEMSIS License Management System.

Have a question? Please contact the EMS Permitting Unit via EMS Ambulance Permitting

 

Image of a County of San Diego Ambulance Permit

The County of San Diego Emergency Medical Services requires that all ambulance and non-emergency transportation provider hold a valid permit like the image above. 

2025-2026 Ambulance Ordinance Permit Fees

Effective July 1, 2025

EMS Agency Fees Amount
Ambulance / CCT Provider Permit Application $11,300 (annual)
Permitted Vehicle Inspection $385 (per inspection)
Air Ambulance Permit $5,500 (annual)