The Heartland Fire Training Authority is governed by a Joint Powers Authority Commission comprised of one elected official from each member jurisdiction. Contract agencies are non-voting members. The Authority provides a training facility for area fire crews. The annual budget is derived from fees paid by participating agencies, which are based on an approved formula along with revenue generated by class offerings.

The participating agencies include: The Cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, and Santee; The Fire Protection Districts of Alpine, Bonita-Sunnyside, Lakeside, and San Miguel; The Viejas and Barona Reservation Fire Departments; and The San Diego County Fire Authority.