Office of the State Fire Marshal

The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal works to give residents and visitors what its mission calls a fire safe environment, whether at home, at work or anywhere else they spend their time. A large share of the office's effort happens before a building ever opens: staff review plans and specifications for new construction, additions and alterations to confirm they meet the Delaware State Fire Prevention Regulations, and they inspect the finished work. The office also issues permits for public assemblies, fireworks displays, explosives use and transport, amusement rides, tents and haunted houses. When fires do occur, its investigations unit examines them with support from a K-9 accelerant detection team. Prevention programs include a youth firesetting intervention effort, a reduced ignition propensity cigarette program, and a device program supplying fire and carbon monoxide alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.