Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig announced on Friday that he will be retiring at the end of the year, concluding a 33-year career in public safety.

Hartwig became the fire chief in 2019 and led the Santa Barbara County Fire Department through the 2021 Alisal Fire that burned 16,953 acres and destroyed 12 structures as well as the 2024 Lake Fire that burned 38,663 acres and destroyed four structures.

“I have always seen the taxpayer as an investor in our service,” Hartwig said. “While we don’t return traditional cash dividends, I have worked my entire career to ensure the public receives a high-quality return in the form of compassionate, innovative and cost-effective service.” 

Hartwig began his career in 1992 with the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Later, he served as a battalion chief and deputy chief with the Rancho Cucamonga Fire District before he was appointed fire chief for San Bernardino County. 

“Chief Hartwig has shown exceptional responsiveness to the community,” said Second District Supervisor Laura Capps, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “He has led with remarkable effectiveness, earning the trust and admiration of local fire chiefs and community members alike. His departure will be a significant loss to us.” 

During his time in Santa Barbara County, Hartwig worked with regional fire chiefs to establish a countywide emergency dispatch center and worked to expand paramedic services to all county fire stations, according to Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta, communications manager for the county.

County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato said Hartwig’s efforts to improve public health and safety will have a lasting impact on the community.

“Chief Hartwig is one of the most visionary public servants with whom I’ve had the pleasure to work,” Miyasato said. “He has dedicated his career to public service with unwavering passion and commitment.”

In retirement, Hartwig said he looks forward to spending more time with his wife and family, and he plans to continue advocating for new ways to connect communities with medical care through public safety services and partnerships with health care providers.

The county will begin its search for Hartwig’s successor in the coming months, according to Gerckens Buttitta.