Fire Marshal

Mission, Vision, and Values

Our mission is to safeguard life and property from the threat of fires and explosions in the unincorporated areas of Kaufman County. We will achieve our mission through training and education; enforcement of applicable laws; strong partnerships with emergency service providers; and using the information gained from forensic investigations to fine-tune our risk reduction strategies. Our vision is to be a leading and continually-improving organization that exhibits professionalism, efficiency, integrity, and accountability in each of our service areas.

Services

The Fire Marshal's Office provides several services to the unincorporated areas of Kaufman County, including:

1. investigating fires and explosions;
2. reviewing building plans for compliance with applicable codes;
3. issuing of building, construction, and operational permits;
4. conducting inspections of new and existing buildings to ensure code compliance;
5. providing training and education opportunities for the public and our partner agencies.

History of the Fire Marshal's Office

Kaufman County Fire Marshal's Office was established in 1989 under the authorization of Texas Local Government Code 352. At the time, the population of Kaufman County was too small to adopt a fire code, so the Fire Marshal's Office was only responsible for fire and explosion investigations. By early 2006, Kaufman County had experienced significant growth and the idea of adopting a Fire Code began to be discussed. In June of 2007, Kaufman County Commissioners' Court adopted the 2006 International Fire Code and the Fire Marshal's Office began conducting inspections of new and existing buildings in the unincorporated areas of the county.

Previous Fire Marshals

• Randy Richards (2014 - 2021)
• Larry Ewing (2005 - 2014)
• Mike Smith (1999 - 2005)
• Don Lindsey Sr. (1989 - 1999)