About Us

About the SCCSSAR Team


Santa Clara County Sheriff Search and Rescue was formed in 1989 to assist city, county, state and federal agencies in times of emergency. The Team is part of the Special Operations Division of the Santa Clara County Sheriff Department.

Our members are all dedicated volunteers, who are highly trained to effect successful SAR operations. Our service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. The team is based in San Jose and directly serves the cities and unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County. Membership is open to anyone over 18 years of age who has a sincere interest and desire to make the commitments necessary to be an active contributor to SAR. Support is received from the Santa Clara County Sheriff Office and assistance is welcomed from the community at large.

During a typical year, the team responds to about 25 requests for assistance and expends more than 8000 person-hours of training. The team's activities cover:

  • Wilderness and urban search and rescue responses
  • Rope rescue on steep slopes
  • Downed aircraft search, rescue and recovery
  • Support for major community events
  • Community preparedness and preventative SAR education

The team also responds to major and extended out-of county incidents statewide through the California Office of Emergency Services; Mutual Aid Plan. Also, as a Sheriff's Office resource, the team has supported the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection during major wildland fire incidents.