The Best Private Security in University Place, WA

In University Place, all private security companies and individual 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, while individual guards must complete mandatory training (8 hours for unarmed, 16+ hours for armed) and pass background checks. University Place businesses hiring security should verify both the company's state license and individual guard credentials. The Pierce County Sheriff's Office may also have local coordination requirements for armed security details in certain commercial areas.

University Place residents frequently utilize private security for HOA-managed neighborhoods, gated communities like Chambers Bay Estates, and waterfront properties along Puget Sound. Common services include 24/7 patrols of community amenities (parks, trails, pools), access control at neighborhood entrances, vacation house checks, and response to alarm activations. Given University Place's mix of suburban neighborhoods and proximity to major corridors like Bridgeport Way, many communities hire security to deter package theft, vehicle break-ins, and unauthorized access—concerns that complement the University Place Police Department's patrols.

Private security in University Place serves as a preventive and immediate-response layer on private property, while UPPD handles law enforcement and public safety. Businesses along the commercial corridors (e.g., Market Square, Cirque Drive) often hire security for after-hours patrols, trespassing enforcement, parking lot safety, and customer conflict de-escalation—freeing up police resources for criminal matters. Security guards can enforce store policies and detain individuals until police arrive, but only UPPD officers can make arrests or file criminal charges. Many businesses use both, with security providing constant presence and UPPD responding to incidents.

For events at University Place venues, prioritize companies with experience in local event security and knowledge of venue-specific regulations. Key factors include: verification of Washington State DOL licensing, liability insurance that meets venue requirements, training in crowd management (especially for large events at Chambers Bay), and familiarity with local ordinances regarding noise and conduct. Ensure the company coordinates with University Place Police for traffic control and emergency response plans. Ask for references from other University Place event organizers, and confirm they conduct background checks on all event staff.

Yes. While Washington State issues armed security licenses, University Place has additional considerations. Armed guards are subject to stricter background checks and training (including firearm proficiency). Many residential areas and public-facing businesses in University Place prefer unarmed guards due to community safety perceptions. However, armed security may be used for high-value commercial transport or sensitive facilities. Companies must follow Washington's laws on firearm storage and transport, and some University Place commercial leases may restrict armed security. Always notify the University Place Police Department when armed security will be operating in your location for coordination and safety.