# Sec. 11-152. Investigation of fires

Codified through Bill No. CB-018-2026, adopted May 12, 2026, effective July 24, 2026. Source: Municode, Supplement 2026 Update 2. Editorial notes and legislative history omitted.

## Sec. 11-152. Investigation of fires

Prince George's County, Md., Code § 11-152 (2026)

(a) Authority of Fire Chief or authorized representative generally. The Fire Chief and authorized representative shall have the authority to investigate the origin, cause, and circumstance of every fire, explosion or other emergency in which the Fire/EMS Department has a reasonable interest. When the Fire Chief or authorized representative has reason to believe that a fire or explosion may be the result of a violation of any law, the Fire Chief or authorized representative shall immediately take custody of and safeguard all physical evidence in connection therewith, and shall have the authority to prohibit the disturbance or removal of any material, substance, device, or utility in, or upon, any building or property wherein, or whereon, a fire or explosion has occurred until the investigation of the fire or explosion is complete.

(b) Authority of the Fire Chief or authorized representative to enter and examine. The Fire Chief or authorized representative shall have the authority at all times, in performance of the duties imposed by the provisions of this Subtitle, to enter upon and/or examine any area, building or premises, vehicle, or other thing when there is probable cause to believe that fires or attempt to cause fires exist or which at the time may be burning. The Fire Chief or authorized representative shall have the authority to enter, at any time, any building or property adjacent to that on which the fire or attempt to cause fires has occurred should it be deemed necessary in the proper discharge of the authorized duties; and may, at his or her discretion, take full control and custody of such buildings and premises and place such person in charge thereof as he or she may deem proper until his examination and investigation shall be completed.