About the Fire Marshal Division
- Fire Engineering and Inspection Unit
- Fire/Arson Investigation Unit (transferred to Sheriff's Office as of 1/1/2008)
- Contact information
The King County Fire Marshal Division (FMD) within the Department of Development and Environmental Services is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of the International Fire Code in all new and existing buildings in unincorporated King County.
The FMD, under the direction of King County Fire Marshal John Klopfenstein, conducts fire engineering reviews on large building permits and annual fire safety inspections in the unincorporated area and for several contract cities.
Fire Engineering and Inspection Unit
The FMD Fire Engineering and Inspection Unit reviews submitted plans to ensure buildings comply with a variety of regulated fire and life safety issues. Fire engineers approve the design of:
- fire sprinklers
- fire alarm systems
- fire extinguishing systems
- fuel tank installations
- fire hydrant installations.
There may be occasions when they are also called upon the conduct site inspections prior to permit issuance.
Fire/Arson Investigation Unit
On January 1, 2008, a King County Ordinance went into effect that transferred the Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) to the King County Sheriff’s Office. They are still responsible for the activities outlined below.
The Fire/Arson Investigation Unit is a law enforcement agency that conducts comprehensive fire investigations to determine the origin and cause of fires and criminal investigation of those fires determined to be arson. Criminal investigation includes all that is necessary for the identification, apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for committing the crime of arson.
The FIU also investigates associated crimes which are perpetrated in the commission of an arson fire. These investigations include coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies within the State of Washington and nationwide.
The Fire/Arson Investigators participate in courtroom testimony and depositions rendering expert opinions.
The FIU identifies product deficiencies and safety hazards for fires determined to be accidental and works closely with department inspectors, code enforcement staff, and outside agencies.
Contact information
| Web | www.metrokc.gov/permits/FireMarshal.aspx |
|---|---|
| Call | 206-296-6675 for Fire Marshal Division 206-296-7071 for Fire Marshal John Klopfenstein |
| TTY | 206-296-7217 |
| DDESWebInquiries@kingcounty.gov | |
| Address | Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES) 900 Oakesdale Avenue SW Renton, WA 98057-5212 |
| Map & Directions | www.metrokc.gov/ddes/about/ddesmap.aspx |