Investigative and Forensic Services

About Us

"To effectively prevent, discourage, investigate and prosecute arson and arson-related crimes for the protection of Florida citizens and their property."

The Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations is a law enforcement branch of the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services and is responsible for conducting fire, arson, and explosives investigations as well as other associated crimes statewide. The Bureau was originally established in 1973 as part of the Office of State Fire Marshal and was formed for the purpose of the suppression of arson and the investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire. In 1976, the Bureau became recognized as a sworn law enforcement agency.

Our investigators are sworn state law enforcement officers and are available to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to calls initiated by fire departments, law enforcement agencies and citizens who need assistance conducting fire origin and cause investigations.

During 2015, we received 3,400 new requests for investigations. This year, the Bureau conducted investigations on properties that resulted in estimated losses of nearly $179 million. Of this estimated property loss, approximately $16 million was attributed to the crime of arson. Sworn personnel of the Bureau made arrests in 414 investigative cases in 2015, resulting in the arrest of 511 defendants. The numbers are staggering and we are working harder than ever to ensure that those responsible for arson are apprehended and prosecuted.

The Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations was reaccredited by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation February 21, 2013.

Section 633.112, F.S

Upon request, the State Fire Marshal shall investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances of fires and explosions occurring in this state wherein property has been damaged or destroyed and there is probable cause to believe that the fire or explosion was the result of carelessness or design.

Section 552.113

The division shall investigate, or be certain that a qualified law enforcement agency investigates, the cause and circumstances of each theft, illegal use, or illegal possession of explosives which occurs within the state.

Section 943.0312 F.S.

Provides assistance related to explosions or explosive devices and other law enforcement activities to the seven Regional Domestic Security Task Forces

Section 552.21, F.S.

Whenever the division shall have reason to believe that any person is or has been violating the provisions of this chapter or any rules or regulations adopted and promulgated pursuant thereto, the division may, without further process of law, confiscate the explosives in question and cause them to be stored in a safe manner, or, if any explosives are deemed by the division to be in such a state or condition as to constitute a hazard to life or property, the division may dispose of such explosives without further process of law. The division is authorized to dispose of any abandoned explosives that it deems to be hazardous to life or property.