The Best Private Security in Edwardsville, IL

In Edwardsville, Illinois, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Security guards must complete 20 hours of basic training, pass a background check, and hold a valid Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC). Companies must also carry general liability insurance. Edwardsville may have additional local ordinances, so it's important to verify with the City Clerk's office that your security provider meets all municipal requirements.

In Edwardsville, common private security services include: 1) Armed or unarmed static guards for businesses, construction sites, and residential communities, 2) Mobile patrol services for neighborhoods and commercial areas, particularly around Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and downtown, 3) Event security for campus events, weddings, and community festivals, 4) Executive protection for corporate personnel, and 5) Specialized security for the many distribution centers and manufacturing facilities in the area. Many Edwardsville residents also utilize alarm monitoring and video surveillance services.

In Edwardsville, private security costs vary based on service type. Unarmed security guards typically range from $25-$40 per hour, while armed guards cost $35-$60 per hour. Mobile patrol services often charge $35-$50 per visit. For residential security, alarm monitoring ranges from $30-$60 monthly, while dedicated neighborhood patrol services might cost $150-$300 monthly per household. Event security typically runs $40-$75 per hour per guard. These rates are influenced by factors like location specifics, required training levels, and contract duration. Many Edwardsville security companies offer free consultations to provide accurate quotes.

When hiring private security in Edwardsville, verify: 1) Valid Illinois IDFPR licensing for both the company and individual guards, 2) Proper insurance coverage including general liability and workers' compensation, 3) Local experience and knowledge of Edwardsville's specific security challenges, 4) Positive references from other Edwardsville businesses or residents, 5) Clear communication protocols for coordinating with Edwardsville Police when necessary, 6) Training programs that exceed state minimum requirements, and 7) Transparent pricing without hidden fees. The Edwardsville Chamber of Commerce can often recommend reputable local security providers.

Professional security companies in Edwardsville maintain cooperative relationships with the Edwardsville Police Department through several channels: They typically have established communication protocols for reporting incidents, often using direct non-emergency lines. Many participate in local business watch programs and share relevant security footage when requested. During large events at SIUE or downtown, security teams often work alongside police for crowd management. However, it's important to understand that private security has no police powers - they can only detain individuals until police arrive and must immediately contact EPD for any criminal matters. Always confirm that your security provider has these coordination procedures in place.