Has Your Fire Season Started Early? What You Need to Know About Forest Service Audits in 2025

As fire contracts ramp up earlier and earlier each year, the Forest Service is bringing a renewed focus to one area operators can no longer afford to overlook: fuel trucks and their drivers.

If your season is already underway—or you’re preparing for deployment—you need to be audit-ready. The USFS is cracking down on some very specific areas this year, and unprepared operators could see delays, write-ups, or worse.

Here’s what Forest Service inspectors are focusing on in 2025:

Driver Logs: Are your drivers current, legal, and properly logging hours? Expect logs to be reviewed on the spot.

Clean, Clear and Bright

Fuel Logs: Accuracy matters. Make sure your team is recording fuel quantities, dates, and aircraft tail numbers clearly.

Fuel Samples: Inspectors are asking for fuel samples regularly—ensure your crew is trained and your sampling kit is on hand.

Vehicle Cleanliness & Readiness: Clean, organized fuel trucks make a strong first impression. Sloppy or unsafe rigs are a red flag.

Driver Credentials: This year, there’s extra scrutiny on license types, endorsements, and Hazmat/CDL compliance—especially if trailers are involved.

Stay Ahead of the Inspection

Now’s the time to double-check your contract requirements and review:

What’s expected of your fuel crew

What documentation should be ready and accessible

What updates might apply to driver licensing due to trailers or fuel quantity

Final Thought

The USFS is stepping up enforcement and field inspections this year, especially when it comes to the vehicles and personnel that support your aircraft.

Awareness and preparation can go a long way.

Take a few minutes this week to walk your fuel truck, talk to your crew, and review your logs.

Small details make a big difference during inspections.

P5 Aviation Safety – Compliance Elevated.