The Best Private Security in Scranton, PA

In Pennsylvania, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Bureau of Licensing. This is a state-level requirement that applies in Scranton. Companies must obtain a Private Detective/Private Security Business License, and guards must complete Act 235 certification (Lethal Weapons Training) if they are armed, or meet specific training requirements if unarmed. The Scranton Police Department does not issue separate local licenses, but companies must comply with all state regulations and any applicable local business ordinances. Always verify a company's PSP license number before hiring.

In Scranton, common security needs include: 1) **Static Site Security** for warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities in industrial areas, particularly given the city's logistics and industrial history. 2) **Retail Loss Prevention & Asset Protection** for businesses in shopping areas like the Viewmont Mall or downtown. 3) **Event Security** for concerts at the Pavilion at Montage Mountain, festivals like La Festa Italiana, or university events at the University of Scranton. 4) **Residential Patrol Services** for larger apartment complexes or neighborhoods. 5) **Executive Protection** for corporate visitors, though this is less frequent. The specific threats often relate to property crime, theft, and maintaining order during large gatherings.

The Scranton Police Department provides public safety response to emergencies and crimes in progress. However, private security serves a complementary, proactive role. You should consider hiring private security in Scranton for: **Deterrence and Constant Presence** (e.g., at a construction site overnight where police cannot be stationed), **Private Property Enforcement** (enforcing rules on your business premises or apartment complex), **Event Traffic & Crowd Control** (freeing up police for emergency calls), and **Detailed Activity Logs & Reporting** for insurance or liability purposes. Private security acts as your dedicated eyes and ears, while SPD responds to dispatched calls. For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, always call 911.

When vetting a Scranton-area security provider, check: 1) **Valid PSP License**: Confirm their state business license is active and in good standing. 2) **Insurance**: Ensure they carry comprehensive general liability and workers' compensation insurance—ask for a certificate. 3) **Local Experience & References**: Choose a company familiar with Scranton's specific neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and local ordinances. Ask for references from past clients in the area. 4) **Training & Supervision**: Inquire about their guard training programs (especially for de-escalation relevant to community interactions) and how supervisors patrol and check on guards in Scranton. 5) **Transparent Contract**: Review services, costs, and termination clauses clearly. A reputable local company will be transparent about all these points.

Yes. While armed security guards require the state Act 235 certification, their deployment in Scranton comes with important considerations. Some property owners or event organizers in the city may prefer unarmed guards to maintain a less intimidating presence, especially in community-focused or retail settings. For armed guards, companies must have strict policies on firearm storage and transportation compliant with PA law. Furthermore, certain venues or clients in Scranton (like schools or some municipal properties) may have contractual prohibitions against armed personnel. It's crucial to discuss the specific environment (e.g., a high-cash business in a higher-risk area vs. a downtown restaurant) with your provider to determine the appropriate level of service. Always ensure any armed guard's certification is current and issued by the PSP.