Bob is correct. Usually, it is the local County Sheriff who pays the SAR bill, since they are the responsible law enforcement agency. That responsibility includes the safety of all persons within their jurisdiction.
We would not have to expect pay the costs of police or fire department assistance when we have an accident at home or on the highway, so we shouldn't be forced to pay for assistance in the mountains either.
However, contributions to your local SAR groups are always welcome. Most SAR personnel are unpaid volunteers, some of whom lose work pay when they go on missions.
