Security guards and private investigators play a critical role in protecting people, property, and information. Whether patrolling a site or conducting an investigation, they must adhere to strict legal and professional standards. In Ontario, the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA) governs their conduct, licensing, and operational requirements to ensure professionalism, safety, and compliance with the law.

Licensing and Identification

As of September 30, 2023, Ontario transitioned to a fully digital licensing system. Physical licence cards are no longer issued, and all security guards and private investigators must download and print their digital licence or keep an electronic copy readily available while on duty.

To comply with licensing requirements, individuals must:

• Identify themselves as a security guard or private investigator when required
• Carry a valid digital or printed licence at all times while working
• Present their licence upon request from employers, police, or members of the public

Failure to comply can result in fines and penalties. However, undercover security professionals, such as those conducting loss prevention or covert operations, may delay identifying themselves until they confront a suspect.

Additionally, no security guard or private investigator may misrepresent themselves as law enforcement. Using terms like “police,” “detective,” “law enforcement,” or “special constable” is strictly prohibited and may result in fines or legal consequences.

Who Needs a Licence?

Anyone working as a security guard or private investigator for a business or client in Ontario must hold a valid licence. However, some professionals are exempt from this requirement, including:

• Practicing lawyers (barristers or solicitors)
• Those conducting background checks for credit, insurance, or employment purposes
• Individuals working in peace officer roles
• Insurance adjusters licensed under the Insurance Act
• Professionals licensed in other Canadian provinces who temporarily conduct investigations in Ontario
• Locksmiths and certain armoured vehicle operators

For full details on exemptions, individuals should refer to Ontario’s official security and private investigator regulations as per the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA).

Use of Equipment: Firearms, Batons, and Handcuffs

Security guards and private investigators may carry specific equipment only if issued by their employer and used within legal boundaries.

• Batons – Permitted only for defensive purposes
• Handcuffs – Allowed, but training and appropriate use are essential
• Firearms – Only armed security guards with a firearms licence and a valid Authorization to Carry (ATC) permit issued by the federal government can carry firearms

Armed security guards must carry both their firearms licence and ATC permit at all times and present them upon request from authorities. Private investigators, although permitted to carry batons and handcuffs, do not have authorization to carry firearms while working.

Use of Dogs in Security Operations

Some security operations incorporate the use of guard dogs for patrolling and detection purposes, but Ontario has strict regulations regarding their deployment:

• Dogs must be on a leash at all times
• They must wear a fluorescent collar and an identification tag with their employer’s name
• They must be properly trained for guarding and patrolling

Security personnel cannot use dogs for crowd control or to chase and physically restrain an individual. Companies that employ dogs for security purposes must maintain detailed training records and care guidelines for compliance purposes.

Penalties for Violations

Failing to comply with Ontario’s security industry regulations can result in serious consequences for both individuals and employers. Violations may lead to:

• Fines for security guards, private investigators, or their employers
• Licence suspension or revocation
• Possible jail time for severe infractions

Security professionals must strictly follow industry standards to avoid penalties and ensure they operate lawfully and ethically.

Reporting Crimes and Interacting with Law Enforcement

Security guards and private investigators do not have police powers and must report crimes to local law enforcement when necessary. If an incident occurs while on duty, they are responsible for securing the area, documenting events, and providing detailed reports to authorities.

In any situation involving criminal activity, security professionals should:]

• Contact police immediately when necessary
• Secure the scene and preserve evidence
• Provide accurate and unbiased reports
• Avoid interfering with police investigations

Uniform Requirements for Security Guards

Ontario mandates specific uniform standards for security guards to ensure they are easily identifiable to the public. Security guards must wear a uniform that includes:

• An identification tag displaying their full name or licence number
• The name, logo, or crest of their employer
• The words “SECURITY” or “SECURITY GUARD” in a contrasting, highly visible colour

Back of the Uniform: The words “SECURITY” or “SECURITY GUARD” must also appear on the outermost layer of clothing, such as rain jackets or Kevlar vests.

Exceptions: Certain roles, such as bodyguards, loss prevention personnel, and undercover security may be exempt from wearing standard security uniforms but must still carry their licence and present it upon request.

Prohibited Uniform Elements

To prevent confusion with law enforcement, security guards cannot wear:

• Rank chevrons
• Police-style forage caps
• Black or navy blue collared shirts
• Striped uniform pants

Security companies should ensure all uniforms comply with Ontario’s security industry regulations to avoid penalties and ensure proper identification.

Regulatory Inspections and Compliance

Ontario conducts routine inspections at businesses that employ security guards. Inspectors check for:

• Valid licenses for all security personnel
• Compliance with uniform regulations
• Proper documentation and training records

Employers and security personnel must ensure they meet all legal requirements to avoid fines or disciplinary action.

For Help

For more detailed information on security guard and private investigator requirements, refer to the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General.

If you are interested in becoming a professional licensed security guard or private investigator, contact our preferred experts, Smith Investigation Agency . They offer government approved training courses and CRJMC services.

								
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