The Best Private Security in Tavares, FL

In Tavares and throughout Florida, private security companies and individual security officers must be licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. Security officers must complete a 40-hour 'Class D' training course, pass a state exam, and undergo a criminal background check. Armed guards require an additional 28-hour 'Class G' firearms training. Companies themselves must hold a 'Class B' Private Investigative Agency license. It's crucial to verify that any security provider you hire in Tavares has these current, valid state licenses.

Given Tavares's status as the 'Seaplane City' and its location on Lake Dora, common security services include residential security for waterfront properties and gated communities, event security for city festivals like the Tavares Seaplane Fly-In, and commercial security for the downtown business district and marinas. Mobile patrol services are also popular for monitoring larger residential areas and construction sites, especially with the ongoing growth in the region. Many residents also utilize alarm response services, where a security officer is dispatched when a home or business alarm is triggered.

Costs in Tavares can vary based on the service type and level of risk. For an unarmed security officer for a private event (e.g., a wedding or community gathering), you can expect to pay between $25 and $40 per hour. Armed security officers typically range from $35 to $60 per hour. For ongoing residential patrol services, many companies offer packages starting around $20-$30 per hour, with discounts for contracted monthly services. It's always best to get quotes from several licensed Tavares-area providers, as factors like the number of officers needed, duration, and specific location (e.g., a remote waterfront home vs. a downtown business) will influence the final price.

When hiring in Tavares, first and foremost, verify their FDACS license is active and in good standing. Look for a company with local experience and knowledge of the Tavares area, including familiarity with the Lake County Sheriff's Office and Tavares Police Department protocols for collaboration. Check for positive reviews and ask for local references. Inquire about their officer training programs, especially for situations common to the area, such as dealing with boating or seaplane event crowds. Ensure they carry adequate liability insurance. A reputable Tavares security provider will be transparent about their processes and willing to conduct a site-specific security assessment.

Private security officers in Tavares, like elsewhere in Florida, operate under 'citizen's arrest' authority. This means they can detain an individual if they have witnessed a felony being committed or have reasonable grounds to believe a person has committed a felony. For misdemeanors, they can typically only make an arrest if the offense was committed in relation to the property they are hired to protect. However, their primary role is to observe, report, and deter crime. They should immediately contact the Tavares Police Department or Lake County Sheriff's Office to handle any formal arrest and custody. A professional security company will have clear use-of-force and detention policies that comply with Florida law.