Evidence Submission Procedure

Forensic Laboratory personnel will accept evidence submitted by the fire service, law enforcement agencies or other laboratories. Our services are free to the investigative agencies. We accept evidence in person, via courier, and US Postal Service (registered or certified only) at the Forensic Lab during regular business days from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. When submitting in person or transporting evidence for analysis, you may be asked to:  

1. Show a valid photo ID, preferably your departmental photo ID.
2. Complete the Evidence Submission Form provided by the Forensic Lab.
3. Seal and initial each container for chain of custody purposes.
4. Provide an electronic signature for laboratory chain of custody purposes.

An evidence receipt detailing the date and time submitted, the laboratory case number and a brief description of the evidence will be provided to the submitter / transporter.

Mail / Courier Submission

Submitting evidence by mail or courier is a convenient alternative to in-person submission. To maintain the chain of custody of your evidence, use a courier or type of mail service that provides a tracking number. The progress of your package may often be followed on the courier’s web site.

Submitting agents are encouraged to contact the Forensic Laboratory if  there are any questions or further information is required. We can be reached via

Phone:  614-752-7150  or  888-801-2752
Fax:  614-752-7214
e-mail:  sfmlab@com.state.oh.us

Be sure each individual piece of evidence is sealed and initialed appropriately and that you have included a submission form.  On the evidence package, display the following information:  

1.   Submitter's name

2. Submitting Agency Address (as the return address)

3.   Mark "Evidence" on the package.

4.   Address the package to:

Forensic Laboratory

Division of State Fire Marshal

8895 East Main Street

Reynoldsburg , Ohio 43068-3395

For the safety of Forensic Lab employees and to assure that evidence originated from a legitimate fire investigator and/or law enforcement agent, our evidence staff may contact the submitter to confirm the package. Please note that suspicious or unconfirmed packages may be destroyed without opening. Following these directions will allow us to provide prompt service in processing your case.