Investigations & Inspections

Arson Investigations


The objective of a fire investigation is to determine the origin of the fire. Interviews must be conducted, evidence collected, and comprehensive reports of all findings prepared. To complete these tasks, the Fire Investigator must know and understand the rules governing proper crime scene techniques, interviewing strategy, and the technical aspects of fire science.

If, during the initial stages of inquiry, evidence of criminal activity is uncovered, the fire Investigator must automatically shift to his secondary role to identify and move against those responsible. A Fire Investigator who has reason to believe that arson was committed is obligated to develop the case to its fullest extent, which may include filing criminal charges and serving as a witness for the prosecution. Investigators are tasked with investigations within the 44 square miles of the City of Pasadena, with a population of over 154,000.

Fire Investigators' duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Origin and Cause Determination
  • Crime scene examinations
  • Forensic photography
  • Forensic evidence collection
  • Public Information Assistance
  • Accelerant K9 Detection
  • Bomb Threats/Post Blast Investigation
  • Insurance Fraud Investigation
  • Firearms Training
  • Emergency Planning
  • Extensive Training

The Deputy Fire Marshals are Investigators and Fire Inspectors in the Fire Marshal's Office. They must meet the requirements of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (Peace Officers) and Education, and the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.

Investigators also provide training and education to Pasadena citizens.

Public Information Request


If you need to obtain an incident report, complete a Public Information Request form and email it to dgil@pasadenatx.gov.

Fire Inspections


The Inspection Division conducts inspections on all mercantile, manufacturing, and public buildings. They also inspect facilities that are licensed by the State of Texas. These include:

  • foster homes
  • personal care facilities
  • group and registered homes
  • long-term care facilities
  • nursing homes
  • hospitals, adult day care facilities
  • MHMR facilities, etc.

The objective of the fire inspectors includes enforcement of fire and safety regulations by discovering any deficiencies that pose a threat to life and property from fire and requiring that they be corrected.

Enforcement is implemented when other methods fail. A Fire Marshal Notice (FMN) may be issued ordering the owner/occupant of the premises to correct any hazardous situations. If violations are not corrected, the violator is subject to a fine of $200-$2000. Each day until the violation is corrected.

The Pasadena Fire Marshal's Office enforces the 2024 International Fire Code, which may be purchased from the International Code Council.

Business Hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except holidays.