The Best Private Security in Olympia, WA

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.