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PrivateSecurityReviews

The Best Private Security in Olympia, WA

Average rating
4.4 average rating
Companies ranked
3 top providers
Customer reviews
531 reviews
  1. 1

    Northwest Security Services Inc.

    4.8 out of 5127 reviews
    • Founded 2009
    • 15 years experience

    Services Offered

    • Armed Security Officers
    • Unarmed Security Officers
    • Mobile Patrol
    • Event Security
    • Construction Site Security

    Northwest Security Services is a locally owned and operated security firm with deep roots in the Olympia community. They've built an exceptional reputation over 15 years for reliable, professional security services throughout Thurston County. The company is known for their highly trained security personnel, responsive customer service, and comprehensive security solutions tailored to both commercial and residential clients. Their local ownership ensures quick response times and personalized service that larger national chains often cannot match. They maintain full state licensing and insurance, with officers receiving ongoing training in de-escalation techniques and Washington state security regulations.

    Call (360) 455-7620Find online(opens a web search in a new tab)

    1201 Cooper Point Road SW, Olympia, WA 98502

  2. 2

    Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.

    4.3 out of 5189 reviews
    • Founded 1999
    • 25+ years in Washington experience

    Services Offered

    • Security Guard Services
    • Mobile Patrol
    • Alarm Response
    • Access Control
    • Video Surveillance

    Securitas is one of the world's largest security services companies with a strong local presence serving Olympia and surrounding communities. Their Lacey office provides comprehensive security solutions throughout Thurston County, leveraging global resources with local expertise. They're particularly noted for their advanced technology integration, including remote video monitoring and access control systems. With decades of experience in the Pacific Northwest market, Securitas offers reliable, professional security services backed by extensive training programs and corporate resources. Their local team understands the specific security needs of the Olympia area, from state government facilities to commercial properties.

    Call (360) 923-2400Find online(opens a web search in a new tab)

    700 Sleater Kinney Road SE, Lacey, WA 98503

  3. 3

    Allied Universal Security Services

    4.2 out of 5215 reviews
    • Founded 2016
    • 20+ years in region experience

    Services Offered

    • Security Officers
    • Mobile Patrol
    • Emergency Response
    • Risk Assessment
    • Technology Solutions

    Allied Universal maintains a significant presence in the South Sound region, serving Olympia with comprehensive security solutions from their nearby Dupont location. As one of the largest security companies in North America, they bring substantial resources and professional standards to the local market. They're particularly strong in providing customized security programs for large commercial properties, government facilities, and healthcare organizations. Their local management team has extensive experience serving the unique security requirements of the Olympia area, including the state capitol complex and surrounding business districts. The company invests heavily in training and technology, ensuring their security personnel are well-equipped to handle diverse security challenges.

    Call (253) 272-6268Find online(opens a web search in a new tab)

    1498 Wilmington Drive, Dupont, WA 98327

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about private security services in Olympia, Washington

What are the licensing requirements for private security companies and guards operating in Olympia, Washington?

In Olympia, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) under Chapter 18.170 RCW. Companies need a Private Security Guard Company license, and guards must complete mandatory training (including an 8-hour pre-assignment course) and pass a background check to obtain a Security Guard license. Olympia-based firms must also comply with local Thurston County business licensing. The DOL maintains a public database to verify licenses, which is a critical first step for any hiring decision.

What types of private security services are most commonly needed for businesses and events in Olympia?

Given Olympia's status as the state capital and a city with government buildings, a downtown core, and frequent public demonstrations, common services include: 1) **Static Site Security** for government offices, retail stores, and healthcare facilities, 2) **Event Security** for festivals like Lakefair, rallies at the Capitol Campus, and events at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 3) **Mobile Patrols** for business parks and residential neighborhoods, and 4) **Executive Protection** for visiting dignitaries and officials. Security needs often focus on access control, crowd management, and deterring property crime.

How does hiring private security for an event on the Washington State Capitol Campus in Olympia differ from other locations?

Securing an event on the Capitol Campus involves unique coordination. While you hire a private security company, their operations must be closely integrated with the Washington State Patrol (WSP), which has primary jurisdiction. Your security provider should have proven experience working with WSP and understanding the campus's specific rules and emergency protocols. Permits from the Department of Enterprise Services are required for events, and your security plan will be a key part of that application. A local Olympia security firm with established relationships with WSP and city agencies is highly advantageous for navigating this process smoothly.

What should I look for when vetting a private security company in the Olympia area?

When vetting an Olympia-area security company, prioritize: 1) **Valid State DOL License:** Verify their company and guard licenses are current and in good standing. 2) **Local Experience & References:** Choose a firm familiar with Olympia's specific challenges, such as managing interactions with a transient population or securing properties near the Capitol. Ask for local client references. 3) **Insurance:** Ensure they carry comprehensive liability insurance that meets Washington state requirements. 4) **Training Protocols:** Inquire about ongoing training, especially in de-escalation techniques relevant to public interactions. 5) **Communication:** They should have reliable local dispatch and be able to coordinate effectively with Olympia Police and WSP when necessary.

Are armed security guards common for private services in Olympia, and what are the regulations?

Armed security guards are less common for general private security in Olympia compared to unarmed guards, but they are used for higher-risk assets, executive protection, or transporting high-value items. In Washington State, an armed guard must hold an additional **Armed Private Security Guard License** from the DOL. This requires specialized firearms training from a DOL-certified instructor, passing a proficiency exam, and undergoing a more extensive background check. The decision to hire armed personnel should be based on a specific threat assessment. For most retail, residential, or event security in Olympia, professional unarmed guards are typically sufficient and recommended to minimize liability and escalation risks.

Choosing the Right Security Guard Company in Olympia, Washington: A Local Guide

When considering security for your Olympia home or business, selecting the right security guard company is a critical decision that goes beyond just hiring a uniformed presence. In Washington's capital city, with its unique blend of government buildings, thriving small businesses along Capitol Way, and residential neighborhoods from the Eastside to the Westside, security needs vary widely. A quality security guard company in Olympia should understand these local dynamics, from the legislative session crowds to the quiet hours along Percival Landing.

Washington State has specific licensing requirements for security guards and the companies that employ them, administered by the Washington State Department of Licensing. Any reputable security guard company operating in Olympia must ensure their personnel are properly licensed as Security Guards (Unarmed) or Armed Security Officers. This licensing includes background checks and training standards. When evaluating companies, ask for proof of current licensing—this is your first assurance of professionalism and compliance with state law.

Local context matters significantly. An Olympia-based security company familiar with the city's layout, traffic patterns, and community relationships can provide more effective service than a distant national chain. They'll understand the specific challenges of securing properties near the Capitol Campus, where public access needs balancing with safety, or retail spaces in the downtown core that might experience different activity patterns than those in the Lacey or Tumwater border areas. They should be versed in coordinating with the Olympia Police Department and understanding local ordinances.

For business owners, consider what type of security presence aligns with your brand and customer experience. A boutique shop on 4th Avenue might benefit from a discreet, customer-service-oriented guard, while an industrial facility in the Port of Olympia area may require a more visible, patrol-focused approach. Residential communities, especially those with HOAs in neighborhoods like the South Capitol Neighborhood, often seek companies that specialize in community engagement and access control.

Practical advice for Olympia residents and business owners: Always interview multiple security guard companies. Ask for local references you can actually contact—perhaps other businesses on your block or neighborhoods similar to yours. Inquire about their hiring and training processes; the best companies invest in continuous training that includes de-escalation techniques particularly valuable in our community-focused city. Discuss their communication protocols; you'll want to know how they report incidents and whether they provide regular activity logs. Finally, ensure their insurance coverage meets Washington's requirements and provides adequate protection.

Remember that security is as much about prevention and presence as it is about response. The right security guard company becomes a partner in your safety strategy, offering tailored solutions whether you're protecting a state government contractor's office, a waterfront restaurant, or a quiet cul-de-sac. By choosing a company that understands both Washington's regulatory landscape and Olympia's unique character, you invest not just in security personnel, but in peace of mind for everyone who enters your space.

Topic: security guard companies

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