Armed security guards in San Diego
An armed officer is a serious decision. Ours hold state firearm permits, work under post orders written by a retired police officer, and are placed only where the risk calls for it.
- $28 to $55 per hour
- BSIS firearm-permitted officers
- Supervised by a retired police officer
How much does an armed security guard cost in San Diego?
Armed security guards from MT Security cost $28 to $55 per hour in San Diego County, about $10 to $20 more per hour than unarmed guards because of firearm permits, added training and insurance. There is a four-hour minimum. Every armed officer holds a California BSIS guard card and exposed firearm permit. Call (619) 765-2222.
When an armed guard is the right call.
We start every armed request with one question: what specific threat are we answering? If there is no clear answer, an unarmed officer is usually the better and cheaper choice.
Cash and high-value goods
Jewelry, cannabis, pharmaceuticals, firearms, electronics, or regular cash movement.
An armed officer at the door or escorting deposits changes who decides to try you.
A credible threat
A terminated employee, a stalker, a threat made against a congregation, a business or a person.
Armed presence for as long as the threat is live, with a written threat assessment and a plan your attorney can see.
A site that has already seen weapons
An armed robbery, shots fired nearby, or armed trespassers on a vacant property.
Armed overnight coverage, coordinated with local law enforcement.
A contract or insurer requires it
Some lenders, carriers and government contracts specify armed officers.
We provide the license and insurance documents your file needs, usually the same day.
What you are actually getting.
State firearm permit, current
Each armed officer holds a California BSIS exposed firearm permit in addition to a guard card. California requires range requalification to keep it.
Judgment before force
Post orders stress observation, distance, de-escalation and calling law enforcement early. The firearm is the last tool, not the first.
Supervision by someone who has done the job
Michael carried a firearm for 15 years as a Chula Vista police officer. He decides who is ready to work an armed post.
Insurance to match
Liability coverage that includes armed services. Certificates on request for your property manager or lender.
Rates
| Service | Rate | What that covers |
|---|---|---|
| Armed guard, ongoing contract | $28 to $45 | Per hour. Lower end for annual contracts and more weekly hours. |
| Armed guard, short-term or one-time | $40 to $55 | Per hour, four-hour minimum. Overnight, holiday and last-minute shifts sit higher. |
| Unarmed guard, for comparison | $18 to $35 | Per hour. |
Your quote is a single fixed hourly rate in writing. Full price list
Common questions
What license does an armed guard need in California?
A BSIS guard card and a BSIS exposed firearm permit, which requires firearms training, a background check, an assessment, and periodic range requalification. The employer must hold a Private Patrol Operator license. MT Security is PPO 14929.
Do I really need an armed guard?
Often not. Most theft, trespass and vandalism problems are solved by a visible, alert unarmed officer and good reporting. We recommend armed coverage when there is cash or high-value product, a credible threat, or a history of weapons on site.
Can armed guards make arrests?
A security guard has the same arrest powers as any private person in California. In practice our officers observe, document, deter and call law enforcement. They do not act as police.
How fast can an armed guard start?
Most armed posts start within 24 to 48 hours. Same-day armed coverage is possible when a permitted officer is available. Call (619) 765-2222.
Do you provide armed guards for events or churches?
Yes, when the risk supports it. Many churches choose a mix: unarmed officers at the doors and one armed officer in a low-profile role.
More answers
- What can a security guard legally do in California?
- How do I check if a security company is licensed in California?
- Should I hire a security guard or an off-duty police officer?
- Mobile patrol or an on-site guard: which does my property need?
- How do I get trespassers removed from my business property in San Diego?
- How many security guards does my business or property need?
- Can I get a security guard in San Diego today?
- How much does a security guard cost per hour in San Diego?
Get your quote in writing
No sales call, no pressure. Tell us the property, the hours and the problem. We answer with a fixed price and a start date.
- Written quote, usually within two hours
- Most posts start in 24 to 48 hours. Same-day when it is urgent.
- Month-to-month available. No long lock-in to get started.
- The price we quote is the price you pay
Prefer to talk? (619) 765-2222, any hour.