What Can Security Guards Legally Do in Canada?

Your business is your livelihood. Whether it’s a retail store, an office, or a high-traffic event space, keeping it safe is non-negotiable. That’s where security guards come in. But here’s the question every business owner should ask: What exactly can security guards legally do to protect my business?

In Canada, security guards are more than just a presence—they’re trained professionals who can deter crime, manage emergencies, and ensure smooth operations. But their powers aren’t unlimited. Understanding their legal boundaries is just as important as knowing their benefits.

This blog isn’t just another overview—it’s your go-to resource for everything you need to know about security guards in Canada. From their legal responsibilities to how they can add value to your business, we’ll break it all down in simple, actionable terms. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to leverage security guards to protect your business, your employees, and your bottom line.

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What Security Guards Can Legally Do in Canada?

Security guards receive specialized training to handle different situations, but they do not have the same authority as police officers. Their primary role is to maintain safety, prevent crime, and protect property. Here’s what they can legally do in Canada:

1. Observe and Report

Security guards are trained to monitor their surroundings and identify potential threats or suspicious activities. They can:
  • Watch for theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access.
  • Report incidents to the police or their supervisors.
  • Maintain detailed logs and incident reports, which can be used as evidence if needed.
Why it matters for your business: Having a guard on-site deters criminal activity. For example, retail stores with visible static security guards often experience fewer thefts. Similarly, mobile patrol security ensures regular surveillance across large properties.

2. Deny Access

Guards can manage who enters or exits a property. This includes:

  • Checking IDs or credentials.
  • Ensuring only authorized personnel enter restricted areas.
  • Monitoring entrances and exits during events or business hours.

For example: At a construction site, fire watch security guards ensure that only authorized workers enter, reducing the risk of theft or fire hazards. Similarly, event security teams at concerts or corporate functions regulate access, ensuring a safe environment.

3. Perform Citizen’s Arrests (Under Strict Conditions)

Security guards can detain someone temporarily if they witness a crime being committed. However, they must:
  • Have reasonable grounds to believe the person committed a crime.
  • Can’t use excessive force.
  • Hand the individual over to the police as soon as possible.
Important note: Guards cannot arrest someone based on suspicion alone. They must witness the crime themselves.

4. Use Reasonable Force

If someone is misbehaving, they can warn them to stop or leave. In emergencies, guards can use force to protect themselves or others. For example:
  • Breaking up a fight.
  • Restraining someone who is causing harm.
However, the force must be proportional to the threat. Using excessive force can lead to legal consequences for both the guard and the business owner.

5. Provide First Aid and Emergency Response

Many security guards are trained in first aid and CPR. They can:
  • Assist in medical emergencies until paramedics arrive.
  • Evacuate buildings during fires or other emergencies.
  • Coordinate with emergency services.
Why it matters: Quick response during emergencies can save lives and minimize damage to your property. CCTV monitoring security personnel can also play a crucial role in identifying emergencies and alerting response teams in real time.

What Security Guards Cannot Do?

While security guards have important responsibilities, there are strict limits to their authority:

1. Arrest Someone Without a Valid Reason

A security guard cannot arrest or detain someone unless they have witnessed a crime happening in real-time. They also cannot force someone to stay in a place unless they are waiting for the police after a legal citizen’s arrest.

2. Carry Weapons (Without Proper Licensing)

In Canada, most security guards do not carry firearms. Only licensed and specially trained guards, such as armed security professionals, are allowed to carry weapons like guns or batons. Regular security guards may carry non-lethal tools such as handcuffs, but only if their job requires it and they are properly trained.

3. Use Excessive Force

Security guards cannot physically harm or restrain someone unless absolutely necessary. If they use too much force, they can face legal consequences, including lawsuits or criminal charges.

4. Search Someone Without Permission

Unlike police officers, security guards cannot search a person’s bags, pockets, or belongings without their consent. The only exceptions are:
  • If the person agrees to a search (e.g., at a concert or private event where bag checks are required).
  • If it is part of a company policy that customers or employees are aware of (such as scanning bags in a high-security workplace).
  • If the police are present and authorize the search.

5. Act Like Police Officers

Security guards cannot impersonate law enforcement. They are not allowed to:

  • Stop and question people without cause.
  • Pull over vehicles (unless working in a controlled parking area).
  • Investigate crimes like police officers do.
  • Issue fines or tickets for offenses outside of private property rules.

Benefits of Hiring Security Guards for Businesses

Here’s how security guards can add value to your business:

1. Crime Prevention

Visible security guards act as a deterrent to criminals. Studies show that businesses with static security guards, mobile patrol security, and CCTV monitoring security experience fewer thefts, break-ins, and vandalism.

2. Improved Customer and Employee Safety

Guards create a safer environment for everyone. For example, they can:
  • Escort employees to their cars at night.
  • Handle disruptive customers.
  • Monitor parking lots to prevent assaults or thefts.
In case of fire hazards, trained fire watch security guards can assist in evacuation procedures, ensuring safety.

3. Reduced Liability

By preventing accidents and responding to emergencies, guards can help reduce your business’s liability. For instance, they can stop fights before they escalate or ensure fire exits are clear.

4. Enhanced Customer Experience

At events, malls, and commercial spaces, event security personnel not only ensure safety but also help with crowd management and customer assistance.

5. Cost-Effective Security Solution

Hiring security guards is often more affordable than dealing with the aftermath of theft, vandalism, or lawsuits. For small businesses, this can be a game-changer.

Key Considerations for Business Owners

Before hiring security guards, keep these points in mind:

Hire Licensed and Trained Guards: In Canada, security guards must be licensed and undergo training. Make sure the guards you hire are certified and have experience in your industry.
Understand the Costs: The cost of hiring guards varies depending on their experience, location, and the level of risk involved. Weigh the costs against the potential benefits for your business.
Choose the Right Security Company: Partner with a reputable security company that provides well-trained guards and clear contracts. Check reviews and ask for references.
Communicate Your Needs: Clearly explain your security requirements to the guards. For example, if you run a retail store, you may need guards to focus on theft prevention.
Monitor Performance: Regularly review the performance of your security team. Are they meeting your expectations? Are there any areas for improvement?

Conclusion

Security guards play a crucial role in protecting businesses, employees, and customers in Canada. They can observe, report, control access, and respond to emergencies—all within the boundaries of the law. For business owners, hiring security guards is a practical and cost-effective way to prevent crime, ensure safety, and reduce liability.

By understanding what security guards can and cannot do, you can make informed decisions and create a safer environment for your business. If you’re considering hiring security guards, take the time to choose a reputable company and communicate your needs clearly.