Travis County Fire Marshal Gary Howell appointed to 2-year term

After a provisional appointment beginning March 2024, Travis County Fire Marshal Gary Howell will serve another two years with approval from county commissioners April 15.

About the position

The Fire Marshal's Office, a division of Travis County Emergency Services, is responsible for fire investigations, fire inspections, and fire code enforcement within the unincorporated areas of Travis County, according to the county’s website.

The Fire Marshall oversees burn bans, inspections and education in order to target fire prevention. The office also assists in fire investigations, responds to citizens reports and works with local Emergency Services Districts, or fire departments.

Marshals are all certified fire and arson investigators, certified fire inspectors, and licensed peace officers.

​​​​​Find current burn ban status, Community Wildfire Prevention Plans, and information on permitting and fire inspections on the Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office website.

Career history

For nearly three decades Howell served as a firefighter, and later fire marshal, in Ennis, according to LinkedIn.

Since taking on the role in Travis County, he has overseen the institution of various burn bans in the wake of prolonged drought and extreme fire weather conditions.