The Fire Marshal Division is committed to providing comprehensive services that promote safety and improve the quality of life for the citizens of Harnett County. Key services include fire prevention inspections and code enforcement, fire investigations, public safety education, and initial emergency management response.

To maintain seamless operations, the division operates under the leadership of the Fire Marshal and Chief Deputy Fire Marshal. The team comprises three (3) Deputy Fire Marshals who work a rotating 24-hour shift schedule, ensuring continuous coverage seven days a week, 365 days a year. Additionally, a daytime Deputy Fire Marshal, a part-time Plan Reviewer, and three (3) part-time Deputy Fire Marshals support the division. Cross-trained daytime staff from the Emergency Management and Fire Marshal Divisions, including the Deputy Director, are on a rotating schedule to provide additional after-hours support and assist with situations requiring extra resources.

The Fire Marshal provides overall leadership for the division and acts as a liaison to the county’s contracted fire departments. This role involves fostering collaboration with fire departments to enhance service quality, improve insurance ratings, and address fire service needs countywide. Furthermore, the Fire Marshal supports county operations by preparing fire department and municipal code enforcement contracts and serving as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code and the Harnett County Fire Prevention Ordinance.

Under the guidance of the Fire Marshal, the Chief Deputy Fire Marshal supervises Deputy Fire Marshals and the part-time Plan Reviewer. Key responsibilities include managing fire prevention inspections, directing fire investigations, and overseeing plan reviews for new construction and required permits. The Chief Deputy Fire Marshal also collaborates with the Planning, Inspections, and Public Utilities Departments to review commercial and residential developments. In addition, the Chief Deputy Fire Marshal ensures that Fire Inspectors are deployed effectively to conduct thorough and efficient fire inspections for businesses throughout the county.