The Best Private Security in Spokane, WA

In Washington State, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Companies must obtain a Private Security Guard Company License, and individual guards must complete 8 hours of pre-assignment training and hold a valid Security Guard License. In Spokane specifically, guards must also comply with any local business licensing requirements from the City of Spokane. It's crucial to verify that any security provider you hire displays their DOL license number, as Spokane has seen enforcement actions against unlicensed operators.

Given Spokane's mix of urban centers, retail districts, industrial areas, and large event venues, common security needs include: 1) **Retail and Business Security** - Particularly in the Downtown core, Kendall Yards, and the North Division corridor to deter theft and ensure safety. 2) **Construction Site Security** - To protect equipment and materials on growing project sites throughout the city. 3) **Event Security** - For venues like the Spokane Arena, First Interstate Center for the Arts, and outdoor festivals like Hoopfest and Pig Out in the Park, focusing on crowd management and access control. 4) **Residential Patrol Services** - For neighborhoods and apartment complexes, especially given local property crime statistics. Many Spokane companies also offer mobile patrols and alarm response.

Spokane's distinct four-season climate requires security providers to be prepared for significant operational variations. Winter security (November-March) must account for heavy snow, ice, and reduced visibility, impacting patrol routes, outdoor camera effectiveness, and response times. Security for outdoor assets or construction sites needs plans for snow removal and equipment winterization. Conversely, summer operations must prepare for extreme heat and wildfire smoke, which can affect guard stamina and electronic equipment. Spokane's terrain, with its river gorge, steep hills, and extensive urban trail system, also requires security personnel familiar with local geography for effective patrols and response, especially in parks or larger properties.

When hiring in Spokane, prioritize: 1) **Valid State & Local Licensing** - Confirm their Washington DOL license is current and check for any complaints with the Spokane Police Department's liaison for private security. 2) **Local Experience & Knowledge** - Choose a company familiar with Spokane's specific crime trends, neighborhoods, and logistics (e.g., navigating downtown during events like Bloomsday). 3) **Training Specifics** - Ensure their guards are trained in de-escalation techniques relevant to urban encounters and have knowledge of local resources like Frontier Behavioral Health for crisis situations. 4) **Insurance & Bonding** - Verify they carry adequate insurance, including general liability and workers' comp, as required by Washington State. 5) **References** - Ask for local client references, particularly from businesses in your sector or area of Spokane.

Yes. While private security in Washington is regulated at the state level, Spokane has specific protocols. The Spokane Police Department (SPD) encourages registered private security companies to participate in information-sharing initiatives, such as the Business & Property Owners (BPO) meetings, to coordinate on area crime trends. Security companies operating in the Downtown Spokane Business Improvement District (BID) area often work in tandem with BID ambassadors. Furthermore, any armed security personnel must comply with all Washington State laws regarding firearms and must not perform duties reserved for sworn police officers, such as making arrests based solely on a warrant. It's advised that security companies establish a clear point of contact with SPD's non-emergency line for reporting incidents.