The Best Private Security in Hollywood, MD

In Hollywood, MD, and throughout St. Mary's County, private security companies and individual guards must be licensed by the Maryland State Police, Licensing Division. Companies need a Private Detective Agency license, and individual guards must obtain a Security Guard Certification, which includes fingerprinting, a background check, and completing a mandatory training course. It's crucial to verify that any security provider you hire in Hollywood holds these valid, state-issued licenses to ensure professionalism and legality.

Given Hollywood's mix of waterfront properties, rural estates, and suburban neighborhoods, common residential security services include dedicated patrol services to monitor large properties, alarm response to verify and secure homes if an alarm is triggered, and executive protection for high-profile residents. Many homeowners also request vacation watch services, where security personnel conduct periodic physical checks of the property while the owners are away, a valuable service in an area with seasonal tourism and boating activity.

Hollywood's location on the St. Mary's River and proximity to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station and expansive rural areas creates a unique security landscape. Services often incorporate marine patrol for waterfront properties, awareness of increased transient traffic during base events or summer tourism, and strategies for securing large, wooded tracts of land. A competent local security provider will understand these geographic and demographic factors, tailoring patrol routes and visibility to address the specific risks of the area.

When hiring for an event in Hollywood, prioritize companies with proven experience in crowd management and local venue familiarity. They should understand the specific logistics of venues like the fire department hall or a private waterfront estate, including parking, access points, and noise ordinance considerations. Ensure they are properly insured and can provide a detailed security plan that coordinates with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office if needed. Asking for references from past events at similar local venues is highly recommended.

While state law governs most licensing, St. Mary's County has local ordinances that security providers must adhere to. These include noise ordinances that can affect how security personnel manage loud events or parties, regulations regarding the use of public roads and rights-of-way for patrol vehicles, and specific rules for commercial properties. A reputable local security company will be well-versed in these county-specific regulations to ensure their operations are fully compliant and avoid any legal issues for you as the client.