Portsmouth Professional Fire Fighters & Paramedics Association

IAFF LOCAL 539 • PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA

Representing Firefighters, Paramedics & Dispatchers

IAFF Local 539 proudly represents Portsmouth’s active and retired firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers. We are united by a commitment to our members, our profession, and the community we serve.

From answering the first call for help to delivering emergency care and responding on scene, our members play essential roles in protecting Portsmouth. Local 539 advocates for fair pay and benefits, safe working conditions, quality training, and the resources our members need to serve effectively.

As an affiliate of the International Association of Fire Fighters and the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters, we give our members a collective voice and support them throughout their careers and into retirement. Our commitment to Portsmouth continues beyond the workplace through community service and support for our neighbors.

NEWS

Member health & wellness

IAFF Center of Excellence

The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind addiction treatment facility specializing in PTSD for IAFF members – and IAFF members only – who are struggling with addiction, PTSD and other related behavioral health challenges to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery. It is a safe haven for members to talk with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.

Visit the IAFF Center of Excellence

Historic milestone • September 22, 2026

Portsmouth Passes Collective Bargaining Ordinance

On September 22, 2026, Portsmouth City Council unanimously passed its collective bargaining ordinance. IAFF Local 539 thanks the City Council and City Manager for helping bring this historic step forward for Portsmouth’s public employees.

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Know the issues

What Is Collective Bargaining?

Collective bargaining is how employees, through their union, negotiate with their employer over pay, benefits, hours and working conditions. It gives workers a shared voice and a process for reaching a written agreement and addressing workplace concerns.

Learn more about collective bargaining