The Best Private Security in Uniontown, PA

In Uniontown, Pennsylvania, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Licensing, under the Private Detective Act of 1953. Companies need a Private Detective Agency license, while individual guards need either a Private Detective or Security Guard license, depending on their duties. Fayette County may have additional local ordinances, so it's important to verify with the Uniontown City Clerk's office. Licensed professionals must undergo background checks, complete required training, and maintain insurance. Always ask to see a company's state license before hiring.

In Uniontown and surrounding Fayette County, common private security needs include residential patrols and alarm response for homes in both suburban neighborhoods and more rural areas, given the mix of settings. For businesses, especially along the National Road (Route 40) corridor, downtown Uniontown, and commercial strips, services often involve access control, loss prevention, overnight security for retail or industrial sites, and event security for local festivals or weddings at venues like the Uniontown Mall area or historic sites. Given the presence of healthcare facilities and schools, specialized security for these institutions is also a frequent request.

Costs in Uniontown typically range from $25 to $50 per hour for an unarmed guard, and $35 to $70+ per hour for an armed guard, depending on the company and scope. Factors influencing price include the level of risk (e.g., a high-cash business vs. a residential check), whether the guard is armed, the duration and hours of service (overnights or weekends often cost more), and any special requirements like vehicle patrols covering larger properties in the county. Local companies may offer competitive rates compared to national firms. Always get detailed, written quotes that outline all services and fees specific to your Uniontown property or event.

Yes. While state law governs licensing, local ordinances in Uniontown and Fayette County can affect operations. Security vehicles performing patrols must adhere to local parking regulations and may need appropriate permits if using public streets for frequent stops. The use of flashing lights on private security vehicles is restricted by Pennsylvania law. Additionally, while use-of-force policies are guided by state law and company training, security personnel have no special authority beyond that of a private citizen in Uniontown. They must cooperate with local law enforcement, primarily the Uniontown Police Department and the Fayette County Sheriff's Office. It's advisable to confirm with your provider that they understand and comply with all local regulations.

When vetting a company in Uniontown, first verify their Pennsylvania State Police license is current and in good standing. Ask for proof of insurance, including general liability and workers' compensation. Inquire about their hiring and training processes—reputable firms conduct thorough background checks and provide ongoing training. Request local references from other businesses or residents in Fayette County. Assess their knowledge of the area, including familiarity with Uniontown's neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and local emergency response protocols. Ensure they have clear communication plans and can coordinate effectively with the Uniontown Police if needed. Finally, review their contract carefully for details on supervision, reporting, and termination clauses.