SpaceX assumes Fire Safety Oversight at Starbase, Shifts Funding Model
SpaceX is altering it’s approach to fire safety at its Starbase facility in Texas, increasingly taking direct control of fire-code approvals and emergency response.Recent developments reveal a shift away from county-led oversight and funding towards a system managed by the company and its appointed vendors.
Previously, SpaceX funded a fire marshal position within Cameron County’s emergency-management office. This agreement,acknowledged during an August 26 commissioners meeting,has now concluded. County officials are seeking a new funding partner, identifying liquid natural gas developer NextDecade as a potential replacement.The fire marshal position was responsible for reviewing plans and inspecting buildings for fire-safety compliance, a role likely bolstered by the increased construction activity at Starbase.
Concurrently, SpaceX has established a volunteer fire department and appointed personnel from the vendor SAFEbuilt to handle fire-code oversight. Cliff Nevins has been named fire marshal,and Wade Cain will serve as building official,both sourced from SAFEbuilt. This arrangement effectively internalizes the fire-code approval process, with SpaceX designating the vendor and managing the associated responsibilities.
This approach contrasts with SpaceX’s strategy for law enforcement within the newly formed city of Starbase. The company has contracted with Cameron County to provide two sheriff’s deputies per shift for patrol duties and secured access to county jail facilities at a rate of $100 per inmate per day.
The differing allocation of resources is notable. Starbase’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 allocates $60,000 to the volunteer fire department, significantly less than the $1.3 million earmarked for law enforcement contracts with the county. This disparity suggests SpaceX is highly likely covering considerable costs related to the volunteer fire department’s equipment and operational expenses.
The changes in fire safety management occur as SpaceX continues to expand launch operations at Starbase. The company’s rapid development cycle has resulted in incidents, including a June explosion following a Super Heavy booster test firing, which prompted numerous emergency calls from concerned residents.No injuries were reported in that incident.
During the August commissioners meeting,one commissioner remarked on the contrast between the approaches to law enforcement and fire safety,stating,”But they can’t hire police officers? Interesting.”
