The Detroit Fire Fighters Association sued the city Tuesday to halt a move to reduce the number of fire companies.
The union filed the lawsuit in Wayne County Circuit Court seeking a permanent injunction, according to The Detroit News.
The lawsuit claims the city's decision violates city charter as well as fire prevention ordinances and regulations.
The city announced earlier this summer that it would eliminate and brownout around 30 fire companies.
"In our job seconds count. This isn't a simple job, it's about life and death," Union President Dan McNamara told the newspaper. "If this city is going to ever come back we need residents to feel safe."
The union plans to hold a press conference in front of browned out Engine 57 at 9 a.m. on Wednesday.
A spokesman for Mayor Dave Bing said the office does not comment on pending legislation.
