Equipment fire activates sprinklers at Chino Hills City Hall; building closed while cleanup proceeds

An isolated equipment fire inside Chino Hills City Hall on the night of June 23 triggered the building’s fire‑suppression sprinkler system and caused significant water damage, the city’s public information officer reported at Tuesday’s council meeting. No injuries were reported.

Public Information Officer Nicole said the fire was quickly contained with help from the Chino Valley Fire District. Out of an abundance of caution, City Hall was closed to the public on June 24 and will remain closed through at least June 25 while officials assess damage and complete cleanup; limited city services remain available by phone and online at chinohills.org.

Fire Chief Williams thanked the fire personnel who responded and described initial salvage actions that first responders perform to limit water damage, including covering valuables with plastic sheeting and using truck crews to remove standing water before contracted restoration companies arrive. Chief Williams said the fire department can provide temporary removal of water and initial salvage but that private restoration firms such as Servpro typically handle full cleanup and restoration.

Council members thanked the responding personnel and asked staff to coordinate needed space and resources while City Hall remains closed. City officials said they will provide updates about when in‑person services can resume.