Budgeting is an essential element of financial planning, control and evaluation process of governments. The District’s annual budget serves as policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communication tool. As such it provides  a clear picture of the services provided by East County Fire and Rescue, the cost of those services, and the policy decisions underlying the District’s financial decisions. In addition, the budget provides district staff with a financial and operating plan that complies with regulatory requirments for fire districts in the State of Washington and exemplifies best practices in budgeting and financial reporting.

East County Fire and Rescue's budget authorizes and provides control of the District’s financial operations during the calendar year. The appropriations may not be exceeded unless amended by the Board of Fire Commissioners. Expenditures are monitored through the accounting system and reported to the Board on a regular basis.