California Lobby Security for Property Managers
California does not have a law that requires building lobbies to have security guards. However, property managers and owners with employees working on the premises do have a responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment for those who visit, live, or work on-site.
Hiring guards and installing security systems are some of the best ways to create that environment. If you’re considering hiring security guards or expanding the security you already have, here’s what you should know about California lobby security.
Does Your California Lobby Need Security Guards?
Every lobby faces security risks, but property owners and managers should be aware of the following risks that are specific to California.
Natural Disasters
California is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires, both of which can make building lobby security systems go down. Backup power systems and security guards are necessary to keep security systems functioning.
Location Challenges
Location can also present security challenges, particularly in:
- High-crime neighborhoods
- Areas with high foot traffic due to tourism and/or temporary film sets
- Residential or other areas where celebrity or VIP clients need added protection, particularly in Los Angeles and Southern California
If your lobby is located near one or more of these types of locations, hiring patrol guards can improve security while also creating a deterrent effect.
Regulatory Requirements
California may not legally require security guards in lobbies, but the state’s privacy laws do regulate where you can place cameras. Property owners and managers must also comply with Cal/OSHA workplace rules and ADA standards.
Warning Signs You Need Lobby Security Guards
Not sure if your lobby needs professional security? These red flags are a sign it’s time to improve your existing security measures.
Tenants in Your Building Expressed Security Concerns
If your building tenants have come to you with security concerns, staffing your lobby with trained security personnel can put them at ease. Otherwise, tenants and lessees may not renew leases, leading to vacant units and undesirable properties.
Your Property is Located in a High-Crime Area
The higher the crime rate in your building’s neighborhood, the more important it is to create a secure environment both inside and around the perimeter. Depending on your security needs, lobby security staff can either maintain a low profile or become a visible presence, going as far as screening for weapons or other unauthorized items at the door.
You Have High-Profile Tenants or Residents
Whether they live, work, visit, or conduct business in your building, you can offer celebrities, CEOs, and other high-profile visitors an added layer of protection by hiring building security. Lobby security guards create a safe, welcoming environment that VIP clients will appreciate, even when they’re traveling with bodyguards or personal security teams.
You Had Security Breaches in the Past
If you’ve had security breaches in the past, don’t wait for history to repeat itself. Put guards in place now as a preventative measure to thwart future incidents in your lobby.
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Security Risks and Needs by Lobby Type
Not every type of lobby requires complex security measures, but for some properties it’s a must. Below is a breakdown of lobby security risks by building type.
Office Buildings
If you run a high-rise office building that rents space to one or more business tenants, it’s time to hire lobby security. Lobby guards can monitor guests and visitors to prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of property crimes, such as burglary or vandalism.
Banks
While most banks have guards stationed inside, financial institutions that have large lobbies or welcome areas can benefit from having a guard stationed near the door. This guard will be the first line of defense against criminal activity.
Corporate Headquarters
Depending on the nature of the business, a front desk receptionist might be all you need to control who enters the building. But in some industries, a trained security guard is the preferred choice. Guards can take measures to protect employees and visitors as well as data, technology, equipment, and materials.
Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
In medical facilities, lobby guards are essential. They keep the peace, maintain order, restrict access to unauthorized visitors, and create a safe environment in a space that can otherwise be quite hectic.
Educational Institutions
Schools are high-risk targets, and security threats in schools have unfortunately become all too common. In 2024, there were 83 school shootings across the United States – the highest annual number on record to date.
Lobby areas at schools serve several purposes. These include controlling the flow of students, staff, and visitors, preventing weapons from entering the premises, and denying entry to would-be criminals who could jeopardize the safety of students and staff.
Government Buildings
Government buildings are usually open for public access, which means they’re always at risk of a security breach. Most federal buildings and courthouses have robust security measures, but it’s less common in local and state-level government buildings.
Gated Residential Communities
Gated communities and high-end apartment buildings often use key cards or fobs to limit access to residents. Add another layer of protection by hiring lobby security guards to control who can enter and when, including visitors, contractors, and delivery personnel. Whether it’s a gated senior living condominium or a luxury apartment building with celebrity tenants, residents living “behind the gates” want to enjoy the security they’re paying for.
Hotels
Many luxury hotels with grand lobbies prefer to avoid visible security guards, but for some guests it can be a reassuring sight. At a minimum, guards should be staffed in lobby areas at elevator bays to ensure only authorized guests can access guest floors. To maintain an upscale experience, consider having your guards wear suits and ties, rather than traditional uniforms, to blend in with the concierge.
How to Work with Security Professionals to Assess Risks
All California security guards are licensed and trained in access control, suspicious activity detection, emergency response, and crime deterrence, but you’ll still need to carefully vet security firms to find the best one for your lobby’s unique security needs.
Researching Security Firms
Verify that the security company has a California license to provide professional security services. Request references from existing or prior clients and confirm that they have experience in protecting properties similar to yours.
Preparing for a Security Assessment
Before interviewing and vetting a security company, gather building plans, incident reports, and insurance claims from prior incidents (if applicable). It’s also wise to gather tenant feedback to pinpoint any other security concerns.
Conducting a Walkthrough
Schedule a walkthrough of your lobby during peak traffic times. The security company should provide a written report with prioritized recommendations regarding the type of security measures you need, how many guards you need, and any security technology that should be installed or upgraded.
What to Review During a Security Assessment
During the initial walkthrough of your lobby, a security company will assess your current security protocols, including access control systems, emergency response protocols, and support for day-to-day operations. They will also recommend systems that you can put in place to increase security.
Access Control
During the assessment, discuss your current access control system and allow the security company to recommend better, more secure methods of protection, including:
- Badge or ID verification systems for authorized personnel
- Visitor check-in protocols, ID verification, and badge issuance
- Metal detection and weapons screening capabilities (if applicable)
Emergency Response
During an assessment, your security company will review and make recommendations about your emergency response systems, including:
- Evacuation and lockdown security procedures
- Protocols for coordinating with law enforcement and first responders
- Incident containment protocols while waiting for authorities to arrive
Support for Day-to-Day Operations
Lobby security guards should facilitate the day-to-day operations of your property and the tenants within. During an assessment, your security company will assess how well your current security measures:
- Manage visitors and provide customer service
- Manage deliveries and package drop-offs
- Control the traffic flow during peak hours
For high-risk properties, a security company may also recommend that you add K9 detection services.
How to Find Lobby Security Guards in California
The easiest way to find lobby security guards in California is Security Explorer. To get started, simply fill out a brief form with your contact information, location, and security needs. A member of our team will reach out to you to verify your information then connect you with vetted, verified security professionals in your area.
Security Explorer can recommend all types of security guards, including those who specialize in providing security for banks, commercial office buildings, and residential communities.
FAQs: What to Consider When Hiring California Lobby Security
Do you need 24/7 lobby security or part-time security personnel?
In most cases, full-time security guard services are best. Security incidents can happen at any time, so protecting your lobby around the clock is always better than having part-time guards present. 24/7 security is a must if you operate a 24-hour property like a healthcare facility, an office building where tenants work late into the night or arrive early in the morning, or a residential facility where people come and go at all hours.
If you decide to hire part-time guards during hours of operation only, protect yourself around the clock with CCTV surveillance systems that off-site security personnel can monitor remotely.
Should you hire armed guards or unarmed guards?
The decision to hire armed or unarmed guards largely depends on your personal preference and the types of people who visit or work in the building daily. Government buildings, banks, hospitals, transit centers, and schools are among the types of buildings that most often hire armed guards, but some residential facilities, hotels, and corporate buildings with high-profile companies hire them as well.
Should guards patrol or remain stationed at a front desk?
Whether to have guards on patrol or stationed at a fixed desk depends on the nature of your property and how many people come and go through the lobby on a regular basis.
For example, in a small office building or medical facility with one entry point, a guard stationed at a lobby desk may suffice. For larger properties, like hospitals and commercial buildings with lots of foot traffic, it might make more sense to have guards stationed at a front desk and on mobile patrol to monitor all areas of the lobby.
Is your security technology up to date?
There’s much more to lobby security than hiring physical security officers to stand guard; having the right technology in place is equally as important. Consider whether you need to install or upgrade:
- Alarm systems at access points
- Access control systems (key fobs and key cards) that restrict entry and prevent unauthorized access
- Motion detectors
- CCTV surveillance systems
Security guards in lobbies keep people safe by preventing incidents from occurring and responding immediately should one arise. To provide your tenants, guests, customers, or clients in California with the safety and security that they deserve, contact Security Explorer now.
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California Vacant Property Security
Vacant properties are known to draw the attention of unwanted visitors. This includes would-be criminals who want to vandalize your building or steal equipment, and squatters seeking to move in without your permission.
And for certain types of structures in California, it’s also unlawful to leave a property vacant without taking necessary security precautions.
Whether you own a vacation home, an unoccupied apartment complex, or an empty commercial building, here’s what every property owner should know about California vacant property security.
Why Do I Need Vacant Property Security in California?
Vacant property owners in California must comply with the state’s strict regulations and requirements. All property owners, including those with temporarily vacant properties, should know the laws and regulations in their region.
California Security Ordinances
Every county in California has its own rules, so be aware of your locality’s current ordinances.
For example, vacant property owners in Los Angeles are required to protect their property from vandalism and trespassing and prevent them from becoming a fire hazard or public nuisance. Under Los Angeles Municipal Code LAMC 98.0716, property owners who do not comply may face fines of up to $1,000 per day.
Throughout the state, regulations are subject to change at any time, and it’s up to property owners to stay abreast of the changes. Hiring security guards (who know the current regulations) to protect your property can help you remain in compliance with local laws.
Legal Liability and Property Management
Using security systems and guards to monitor your vacant property will not only help with property maintenance, it may also reduce your insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts on vacant property premiums if the owner uses professional security services, which can significantly reduce the risk of theft, vandalism, and liability claims.
Should an incident occur — such as a person getting injured while trespassing — you’ll have better protection from negligence lawsuits if you had well-documented security measures in place at the time.
Documentation of your security practices can prove that reasonable efforts were made to secure the property and deter unauthorized access. Security companies maintain documentation such as incident reports, surveillance footage, and patrol logs — all of which can be useful should you have to battle an insurance claim.
Safety Benefits of Hiring Security
In addition to remaining in compliance with local laws and potentially reducing liability premiums, having security measures in place offers a multitude of inherent safety benefits. Security systems:
- Deter criminal activity: Reduce the likelihood of vandalism, property theft, trespassing, squatting, drug activity, arson, and property destruction.
- Maintain access control: Access systems at entry points prevent unauthorized entry.
- Enable fast response to security threats: On-site guards are trained to react quickly if a security breach occurs.
- Improve emergency response times: During a security breach or emergency, security guards can contact law enforcement and emergency services for immediate assistance.
What Are Some of the Warning Signs You Need Security?
While all vacant properties can benefit from having security measures in place, not all need them. If you’re debating hiring security for your property, there are some strong warning signs to look for.
Indications that your vacant property is being targeted, rising crime rates in the neighborhood, and visible signs of attempted break-ins are all signs that it’s time to hire security.
Vacant Property Security Risks by Type
Any type of vacant residential, industrial, or commercial property can face potential threats and criminal activity, but some vacant properties in California are at much higher risk than others.
Construction Sites
- Risks: Construction sites are highly susceptible to vandalism, theft of equipment, and theft of high-value materials such as copper pipes, and leaving them vacant can expose you to legal liabilities if someone gets injured while trespassing.
- Solutions: The larger the site, the more important it is to hire security officers to protect your investment and prevent expensive legal consequences.
Properties Undergoing Renovations
- Risks: Like construction sites, vacant properties can attract vandals and thieves, but may also attract squatters looking to live in your property.
- Solutions: Protect your real estate investment with a security guard and CCTV cameras to prevent unauthorized people from loitering or living in your property.
Multi-Family Residences and Commercial Buildings
- Risks: Large vacant buildings like multi-family residences or commercial structures face threats from unauthorized access and various crimes.
- Solutions: Put security professionals on staff as a visual deterrent to prevent unauthorized access and prevent crimes from occurring.
Residential Homes Pending Sale or Under Foreclosure
- Risks: Homes under contract for sale or listed on the market shouldn’t be left empty for weeks or months at a time, as thieves, vandals, and squatters all pose serious risks.
- Solutions: At a minimum, install CCTV surveillance cameras that you can monitor remotely.
Vacation and Part-Time Residences
- Risks: Leaving your primary or vacation home unattended for a long time makes you susceptible to all sorts of property crimes, and you may have to contend with squatters who claim squatters’ rights, resulting in expensive legal battles.
- Solutions: Consider installing CCTV surveillance cameras to monitor your property remotely, especially if you don’t have nearby neighbors to regularly check on the home.
Properties Owned or Operated by Government Agencies
- Risks: Empty municipal buildings that are either not in use or under reconstruction face vandalism and unauthorized use.
- Solutions: Local governments are responsible for protecting these properties, including those under management of housing associations like Public Housing Authorities.
Read About: Top Security Threats to California Commercial Properties
What to Consider When Hiring Security Guards to Protect Your Vacant Property
Once you’ve determined you need security to protect your vacant property, think about the type of guards and systems you need. Also, consider what you want your overall security plan to look like.
Here’s a look at the top factors to consider.
24/7 vs. Part-time Security
Depending on the location of your property, you may need security guards around the clock or only during off-peak hours, such as nights and weekends. When you hire a professional security company, they’ll do a complete risk assessment of the property and surrounding area to recommend the level of security you need.
Armed vs. Unarmed Guards
All security guards in California are required to undergo professional security training programs and pass a test to obtain their state-licensed guard card. Armed guards have additional firearms training and are licensed to carry a weapon in the state.
Whether to hire armed or unarmed guards depends on the type of vacant property you own and how much crime occurs in the area.
Security Technology Needs
With or without the presence of physical guards, all vacant properties can enjoy the protection of a video surveillance system. Remotely monitored CCTV cameras are excellent crime deterrents.
In addition to CCTV surveillance cameras, consider leveling up security measures by installing other types of technology, such as:
- Smart alarm systems
- Glass break detectors
- Motion detectors
- Smart locks
- Access control systems
- Perimeter detection tech
On a large piece of land or a property with multiple buildings or units, consider installing multiple tech systems in different areas.
Emergency Procedures
Before hiring a security company, do your research to understand the specific protocols they have in place for handling threats, security breaches, and emergencies. For example:
- What are their incident response protocols?
- How do they coordinate with local law enforcement?
- What are their emergency contact procedures?
It’s critical to be aware of how your security guards will conduct themselves, especially if you’re far from the site or visit the property infrequently.
Learn More: What Are the Different Types of Security Guards?
Isn’t It Enough to Just Board Up My Vacant Property?
Boarding up your vacant property is a smart first step toward securing the building, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense.
How Physical Barriers Help
Boarding does offer real security benefits and property protection by creating physical barriers at doors, windows, and other access points. This makes unauthorized entry more difficult and time-consuming, often deterring casual vandals and opportunistic thieves. It can also provide a degree of weather protection from storm and natural disaster damage, including water intrusion and debris.
But when it comes to boarding materials, steel or metal security barriers far outperform plywood. While plywood can be easily kicked in, pried off, or damaged by weather, steel barriers provide actual resistance to forced entry attempts. Steel barriers also create a more professional appearance and last significantly longer without deteriorating, making them more cost-effective despite higher upfront costs.
Why You Still Need Professional Security
Even the best steel security barriers have limitations that only professional security guard services can address.
Barriers are passive, which means they can’t respond to threats, contact law enforcement, or provide real-time monitoring. Determined intruders can still find ways around physical barriers and window guards if given enough time and tools.
Boarding also won’t prevent criminal activity outside of your building, such as illegal dumping. It also can’t detect emergencies like fires or gas leaks. The best approach is to combine steel barriers with a security team, giving you the benefits of both active monitoring and a physical deterrence.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire Vacant Property Security Guards?
Different factors affect the cost of security services in California, so the best way to know what you’ll need to pay is to get quotes from local security providers.
Keep in mind that no matter the cost, an investment in vacant property security can save money in the long run.
What Affects the Cost of Hiring Security?
The three biggest factors that impact the cost of hiring security are:
- Property size
- Location
- Threat level
Due to increased risk and insurance requirements, high-crime areas and larger properties requiring multiple guards command premium rates. You’ll also pay more per hour to staff armed guards rather than unarmed officers.
How Does Hiring Security Save Money?
A single break-in can cost a property owner thousands of dollars in damages and liability exposure. Investing in a security team, even if they only prevent a single incident per year, can cost you far less than running the risk of going without one.
Having on-site security guards and protocols in place also helps you avoid costly municipal fines and lowers the cost of insurance premiums. These also make it a more cost-effective option than forgoing security because you don’t want to incur the expense.
Check Out: The Beginner’s Guide to Hiring California Commercial Security Guards
How Can I Find Vacant Property Security Services in California?
The easiest way to find vacant property security services in California is Security Explorer. To get started, simply fill out our form, provide your contact information and location, and tell us about your property and security needs.
Once we receive your form, a member of our team will reach out to verify your information and connect you with a vetted, verified security team in your local area who can provide you with security solutions that will work for you.
Leaving a property unoccupied and unattended increases the risk of trespassers, vandals, thieves, squatters, arson, and all sorts of criminal activity. It also puts you at risk of violating local California ordinances and regulations, which can subject you to expensive fines and fees.
Before someone damages your property, injures themselves while trespassing, or decides that your vacant property is the perfect place to commit criminal activity, hire a professional security team to protect your investment.
To find top-rated security professionals in your California city, contact Security Explorer now.
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Personal Bodyguard Services in California
How to Hire Personal Bodyguard Services in California
Personal bodyguards aren’t just for big-time celebrities and politicians. In California, where crime is on the rise, bodyguards provide the highest level of protection against stalking behavior and other safety threats.
By defending you from everything from pickpocketing to physical assaults, a bodyguard’s protection is more than physical — it also ensures peace of mind.
Thankfully, you don’t have to be a VIP to hire one. Here are the advantages of having a bodyguard and what you should look for when comparing different personal bodyguard services. We’ll also share tips for finding the best bodyguards available in your region.
Why You Need Personal Bodyguard Services if You Live in California
Hollywood stars, musicians, athletes, politicians, and other high-profile individuals aren’t the only people who can benefit from having a personal protection agent, also known as a bodyguard.
Bodyguards are the best security for anyone whose physical safety is under threat, from business executives to people transporting valuable items. They can also be a wise choice for those in domestic violence situations, such as having an angry ex or stalker.
Let’s take a quick look at the many advantages of having a professional bodyguard by your side.
Peace of Mind
The close protection of a top-tier security professional allows you to enjoy your personal freedom and go about your life without worrying about your safety. In other words, it gives you peace of mind.
Passive security systems — such as emergency call buttons on smartwatches or GPS tracking apps — are great, too. But what makes personal bodyguards special is how they continuously surveil your environment and immediately respond to threats.
Of all the protection services you can hire, a personal bodyguard offers the greatest psychological comfort because they can read body language and use situational judgment to identify suspicious behavior before it escalates.
Professional Risk Assessments
Another key benefit of hiring a bodyguard is that they will conduct a complete risk assessment to determine your vulnerability.
This may include putting other security measures in place to protect you, such as:
- Assessing your home for exposure points or perimeter security gaps
- Installing and monitoring a video surveillance system
- Alarming doors and windows in your home or office
- Running background checks on other people you employ
At first, bodyguards can seem like little more than standalone security personnel, but they’re incredibly dynamic. They provide comprehensive protection while being able to quickly adapt to sudden changes in your surroundings.
Protection of Physical Safety and Property
Personal bodyguards offer dual protection. By not letting anyone get too close, they physically protect both you and your valuables.
Bodyguards can usher you to safety and prevent the theft of your vehicle, jewelry, wallet, and other personal items. This is especially critical for anyone who travels with their phone, which often contains all kinds of sensitive data, such as passwords and banking details.
Celebrity security guards, for example, are known to act as a “physical wall” between high-profile clients and the public. Politicians often hire them to keep upset constituents or political adversaries at arm’s length.
Should someone try to harm you or steal your property, bodyguards can detain the person, using a reasonable amount of force, until law enforcement authorities arrive. Professional guards also work closely with local authorities and will coordinate with them when necessary.
Evacuation and Security Planning
To keep you safe, bodyguards conduct route planning and put security plans in place to get you from point A to point B as safely as possible. They also map out exit strategies to get you out of a dangerous situation and to a secure location where you’ll be safe from the threat.
Private security professionals are skilled at putting emergency response plans in place ahead of time. Their duty is to think several steps ahead to prevent any and all potential threats.
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What to Consider When Hiring a Bodyguard
Before you hire a personal bodyguard service, think about the type of protection you need. Every bodyguard undergoes rigorous security training, but some have more advanced skill sets than others.
Here’s what to consider when deciding what type of personal protection you need.
Armed vs Unarmed Guards
Whether to hire armed or unarmed guards is a matter of personal choice, one that can depend on how you feel about guns.
Unarmed guards are highly trained in defensive techniques, including martial arts, to provide excellent personal protection. However, armed guards can offer an additional layer of security.
These firearms experts are trained on when and how to use weapons safely. Many come from military and law enforcement backgrounds, and therefore have many years of experience in handling firearms.
Uniformed vs Plain-Clothes Protection Services
Some people prefer their personal security guard to wear a uniform because it makes them more visible. The more visible they are, the more likely they are to deter potential crimes.
Others prefer their bodyguards to “blend in” and serve in a stealth capacity. Similar to choosing between an armed or unarmed guard, choosing whether to hire a uniformed bodyguard is a personal choice. For example, many corporate executives, VIPs, and other high net-worth individuals prefer their bodyguards to wear a suit and tie because it looks more professional.
24/7 vs Part-Time Security Guards
Do you need 24/7 bodyguard protection, or do you only need a bodyguard for specific situations?
Some people feel safer when they have around-the-clock bodyguard protection. Others only want a guard around for certain high-risk scenarios, such as:
- Traveling (whether for business or personal recreation)
- Attending a major event, even if event security is already present
- Meeting new people in personal and/or professional interactions
- While transporting or wearing valuable jewelry or other items
Some people only hire guards to protect them when they’re at a designated location, such as a crowded public place. Executive protection is especially important if you have a high-level position at a large or high-profile company.
Should You Add K9 Security?
Guard dogs can make a fantastic addition to any bodyguard or security team. When vetting security companies, ask if they think K9 security might be a smart option for you.
If you hire a part-time bodyguard, a trained security dog could serve as backup protection while your guard is off duty.
Does Your Family Need Bodyguard Security Services, Too?
Different families may have unique needs. Depending on your own, it might be a good idea to hire extra guards who can see to the safety of your spouse and children.
Whether you need one guard to simply defend yourself or five guards to protect your entire family, a security guard company can provide you with whatever options you need.
Related: The Beginner’s Guide to Hiring a Security Guard to Keep You Safe
How to Find the Best Bodyguards in California
If you need to hire a bodyguard, check out Security Explorer’s searchable database of top-notch California security service firms. It’s the fastest and easiest way to find quality protective services in the Golden State.
Or, fill out our simple form with your contact information, location, and security needs. A member of our team will reach out to verify your information and connect you to a verified security firm in your area.
Bodyguard services are the ultimate source of personal protection. Whether you need protection from the general public or a specific individual who poses a threat, a bodyguard can keep you and your loved ones safe, comfortable, and secure everywhere you go.
Search Security Explorer’s comprehensive database now to find personal bodyguards in Los Angeles, San Diego, and other major regions in California.
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Security Explorer Industry Report: California Crime Statistics
California’s Business Crime Report 2024: Insights into Burglaries, Shoplifting, and Retail Crime
California’s businesses, a cornerstone of the state’s thriving economy, face grave security challenges. In 2023, statewide retail crime reached its highest levels in two decades, with approximately 213,000 reported incidents encompassing shoplifting, commercial robberies, and commercial burglaries.
This surge places California distinctly above national averages, with overall property crime rates — including burglary and larceny-theft independently — exceeding national figures throughout 2023, only dipping below the national average for larceny-theft in December.
In the past year, a high-profile series of “flash mob” robberies targeted stores, including Nordstrom, Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci, Nike, and Versace, which further increased anxieties about retail crime in the region.
These alarming trends underscore the urgent need for businesses to prioritize and enhance their security measures. The wider retail crime landscape is a complex interplay of factors, including regional variations in crime, economic conditions, recent legislative measures, and law enforcement initiatives.
This report examines these developments in detail, offering business owners and security professionals a comprehensive analysis of current trends and actionable recommendations to protect California businesses.
Trends in Commercial Burglaries and Shoplifting in California
Property crime data paints a nuanced picture, with a rate of 2,294 per 100,000 California residents in 2023. This represents a marginal 0.8% decrease from 2022 and sits just 0.3% below 2019 levels. Of all reported property crimes, larceny thefts dominated at 63%, followed by auto thefts at 22%, and burglaries at 15%.
To better understand the unique nature of California’s retail crime problem, we can compare the Council of Criminal Justice’s study of 38 cities (the median population of the studied cities was 533,000) with the Crime in California 2023 report by the California Department of Justice and the Crime Trends in California report Public Policy Institute of California.
- Total larceny theft rates in the 38 metropolitan areas fell by 4% from 2022 to 2023, but decreased by only 3% in California.
- Non-residential burglaries across the sample cities decreased 7% from the previous year but remained 3% above pre-pandemic levels. While California had an 8.3% decrease in commercial burglaries, its rate of such crimes remained 6.8% above the state’s pre-pandemic levels. This suggests that while some progress has been made, businesses are still more vulnerable to burglary than they were before 2020.
- Most alarmingly, while shoplifting incidents in the cities rose by a large 22% from the previous year, California’s figures increased even further — up 39.9% from the previous year, and still 29.3% higher than in 2019. This is a significant and growing concern for retailers across the state.
Keep in mind that crime rates are generally higher in urban areas, and while this holds true in California, too, the state’s data accounts for urban, suburban, and rural areas. Despite that, commercial crime rates have seen less improvement and shoplifting rates have increased more in California than in the major urban cities studied.
Why Have Retail Crime Trends in California Persisted?
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan points to a “cycle of serious addiction and retail theft and unsheltered homelessness” that has contributed to this problem. This assessment is supported by a unique 2022 report from the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. This report found that individuals currently experiencing homelessness had 175 times higher rates of felony robbery charges compared to the non-homeless population.
In addition, Mayor Matt Mahan notes that after the pandemic, there were instances where individuals were “arrested or cited over 15, 20, 25 times in a period of 24 months.” He attributes such behavior to a “culture of lack of accountability” that emerged during the pandemic era.
Some have also linked the increase in property crimes, particularly shoplifting, to Proposition 47, passed in 2014. This proposition reclassified certain theft offenses under $950 from felonies to misdemeanors. It has been argued that this change, intended to reduce incarceration, has decreased the perceived risk for offenders.
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, evidence suggests that the increase in retail theft due to pandemic responses by the criminal justice system was greater than the increase due to Prop 47.
The Rise of Organized Retail Crime (ORC)
While opportunistic theft poses a significant challenge, the rise of organized retail crime (ORC) presents a deeper threat to California businesses.
As defined by the California Department of Justice, ORC involves organized criminal rings that steal property with the intent to resell it, distribute it, or return it for value. These are not isolated incidents of theft. They are coordinated and sophisticated operations often planned weeks or months in advance.
ORC takes many forms, from targeted thefts of specific high-value items to brazen “smash-and-grab” attacks on retail stores. These incidents can result in significant financial losses for businesses, damage to property, and even threats to the safety of employees and customers. The stolen merchandise is often resold online, making it difficult to trace and recover.
The California Highway Patrol’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF), established in 2019, has been instrumental in combating this growing problem. Here are some key results of their efforts:
- In the first five months of 2024, the ORCTF made 636 arrests and recovered 216,754 stolen items valued at nearly $5.7 million. This represents a 167% increase in arrests, a 525% increase in recovered stolen goods, and a 140% increase in the value of those goods compared to the same period in 2023.
- The task force’s effectiveness continued through 2024. In July, the ORCTF conducted 128 investigations, leading to the arrests of 167 suspects, more than double the previous month. In August 2024, the ORCTF made 171 arrests and recovered $547,000 worth of stolen property. By September 12th, they had recovered a total of stolen goods valued at over $7.2 million.
- Since the inception of the task force, it has led to the arrest of over 3,000 suspects and the recovery of stolen goods valued at over $45 million.
The geographic distribution of ORC activity is particularly concentrated in California’s urban centers. According to the 2023 National Retail Federation Security Survey, Los Angeles and San Francisco/Oakland are the top two metro areas nationwide affected by organized retail crime, with Sacramento also among the most impacted cities.
The Department of Justice has continued to intensify its response to ORC through better collaboration with law enforcement partners, brick-and-mortar retailers, and online marketplaces. Attorney General Bonta and the DOJ have specifically urged big box retailers to implement early reporting protocols and increase investment in security and surveillance technology, recognizing the critical role of prevention and early detection.
Regional Analysis: Security Challenges Across California
While California faces a statewide surge in business crime, the challenges are not distributed evenly. Understanding these regional variations is crucial for businesses to assess their risk and implement targeted security measures.
Between 2019 and 2023, retail theft — encompassing both shoplifting and commercial burglaries — increased in 11 of the state’s 15 most populous counties while generally decreasing in smaller counties. Four counties accounted for 91% of the statewide increase: Sacramento (70% increase), Alameda (65%), San Mateo (41%), and Los Angeles (40%).
The broader property crime landscape shows similar geographic variations. Among the 15 largest counties, six recorded increases from 2022: Alameda (28.0%), San Joaquin (10.2%), Contra Costa (7.7%), San Bernardino (6.6%), Los Angeles (4.7%), and Orange County (1.0%).
Fortunately, overall property crime did decrease in 46 counties in 2023, including 9 of the 15 largest counties.
Regional variation in commercial burglaries, shoplifting, and other retail theft is often due to a complex mix of factors. These include local economic conditions, law enforcement resource shortages, and population density.
For example, the Sacramento Police Department (where retail theft has increased by 70%) reported staff shortages in 2024. Such shortages tend to impact retail theft more than other, more violent crimes. Sgt. Amar Gandhi, spokesperson for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, noted, “When you’ve got a crime against personal safety, those are going to take precedence over a property crime.”
Greater poverty and population density can also lead to higher commercial theft crimes. As noted earlier, there is a link between homelessness and crime, which makes regions like Los Angeles County more vulnerable. Los Angeles is also among the major hubs in the supply chain, making it a frequent target for Organized Theft Groups (OTGs).
Legislative Responses and Law Enforcement Initiatives
The California Highway Patrol established the Organized Retail Crime Task Forces in 2019. However, these were initially three regional task forces, covering areas with the most urgent need for action. This included the greater Bay Area (Golden Gate Division), Los Angeles region (Southern Division), and Orange/San Diego counties (Border Division).
Following a series of smash-and-grab incidents, the California Retailers Association worked with Governor Newsom to expand the program to five divisions for statewide coverage. The ORTC undertakes collaborative efforts with retailers and our law enforcement partners, and, as detailed earlier, has proved to be an invaluable resource in the fight against retail crime.
With commercial robberies and theft still posing a threat, California invested $267 million in local law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in late 2023, leading to over 10,000 arrests for retail theft, motor vehicle theft, and cargo theft offenses.
The state further strengthened its response with 10 new California Organized Retail Crime (ORC) bills signed into law on August 16, 2024, effective January 1, 2025. These are designed to enhance property theft detection, prosecution, and deterrence capabilities. Key provisions include:
- Prosecutors can aggregate the value of stolen goods across multiple thefts to reach the felony threshold, eliminating a loophole that criminals previously exploited.
- A new felony that targets the boosters who resell stolen products.
- Video evidence and sworn witness statements are admissible for probable cause.
- Local law enforcement cannot bring a nuisance action against a business solely for reporting retail crime (unless the report is knowingly false.)
- Stricter penalties for convicted offenders.
Most recently, Proposition 36, overwhelmingly voted for in November 2024, targets repeat offenders by enabling felony charges after two misdemeanor theft convictions. It maintains options for treatment instead of jail for those struggling with drugs or mental health issues.
While the full impact of these legislative and enforcement efforts remains to be seen, they demonstrate the state’s commitment to creating a safer environment for businesses and consumers.
Recommendations for Enhancing Business Security
While the legislative and law enforcement initiatives discussed in the previous section provide a framework for combating retail crime, individual businesses should take proactive steps to protect themselves. Here are some actionable recommendations:
1. Implement Advanced Security Technologies
Invest in a layered security system that integrates technology to deter theft, control access, and provide real-time monitoring.
- Surveillance Systems: High-quality cameras with clear imaging, wide coverage, and remote monitoring capabilities. Consider facial recognition to help effectively identify offenders.
- Access Control: Restrict access to sensitive areas using keycard systems, biometric scanners, or security personnel. Utilize time-delay safes or lockboxes for high-value items and cash.
- Alarm Systems: Install comprehensive alarm systems with sensors for doors, windows, and motion, monitored by a reputable security company. Consider advanced sensors for glass breaks, vibrations, or heat signature changes.
- Inventory Tracking: Implement inventory tracking systems to monitor stock levels and quickly identify potential losses. Consider RFID tagging for high-value items.
2. Employee Training and Awareness
Empower your employees to be the first line of defense against theft, ensure their own safety, and stay prepared to respond to emergencies.
- Theft Prevention: Train employees on how to identify and deter shoplifters, recognize suspicious behavior, and report any concerns promptly.
- Emergency Response: Develop clear emergency response protocols for robberies and conduct regular drills to ensure preparedness.
3. Collaboration and Community Engagement
Crime doesn’t exist in isolation — so security shouldn’t either. To create a safer business environment, build strong partnerships with law enforcement and the community.
Partnerships such as the Coalition of LE and Retailers (CLEAR) play an important role in training and education programs, information sharing, and collaboration.
Key recommendations
- Share information with law enforcement about crime trends and suspicious activity.
- Participate in community policing programs.
- Register your security cameras with the police department.
- Get to know your neighboring businesses and look out for one another.
Proactive Measures for a Secure Business Environment in California
This comprehensive analysis of California’s business security landscape in 2024 reveals significant challenges and hope in evolving responses.
Property crime remains a persistent concern, with retail theft reaching historic highs of 213,000 reported incidents. However, coordinated efforts show promising results, as evidenced by the ORCTF’s recovery of over $45 million worth of stolen goods since 2019.
The state’s multifaceted response, which combines expanded task forces and substantial funding ($267 million), demonstrates a sincere commitment to safeguarding businesses. The recent legislative changes, including new video evidence and witness rules, provide additional tools for businesses, law enforcement, and prosecutors to combat organized retail crime.
As criminal tactics evolve, businesses must continuously assess and adapt their security measures. Regular security audits, updated threat assessments, and implementation of emerging technologies will help stay ahead of new threats. The DOJ has directly encouraged retailers to invest in such security and surveillance technology.
We strongly encourage businesses to partner with security professionals to develop and maintain customized security plans that address their specific risks, location challenges, and operational needs. Use Security Explorer’s free database of the top California security companies to find a reputable security firm in your area.
With the combined efforts of legislative bodies, law enforcement agencies, business owners, retailers, employees, and security professionals today, California will be ready for a safer tomorrow.
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As an event planner, you’re juggling countless details, reserving the perfect venue, coordinating with vendors for catering and entertainment, managing décor, and arranging parking and check-in logistics.
But there’s one crucial element that must remain top of mind: security.
Security should be a priority in event management, as it ensures the safety of guests, staff, and the venue itself. Planning for it, however, can be complex and requires careful attention to detail.
No matter the type or size of your gathering, here’s a comprehensive event security checklist to help you organize a safe and successful event.
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From vandalism to theft to violent crimes, the reality of crime affects businesses of every type. Hiring professional security guards offers a strategic measure to protect assets, secure environments, and provide peace of mind for employees and customers.
According to the FBI’s 2022 Crime Data Explorer, a violent crime now occurs every 24.7 seconds in the U.S., and property crimes are reported every 4.1 seconds. While recent years have seen fluctuating rates, certain crimes, such as robbery, have surged in various areas, highlighting the need for businesses to implement effective security solutions.
One of the best preventative measures you can take against crime is to hire a security guard. But first, you’ll have to decide if you need to hire a guard that’s armed or unarmed.
Not sure which type of guard is right for your business?
Here are the pros and cons of hiring armed vs unarmed guards to protect your business or your next event.
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School Security Guards
School shootings, campus assaults, and bomb threats are always in the news. If you’re a private or public school administrator in the United States, you may be worried about how you can best protect your students from gun violence and other criminal activity.
One solution that schools consider is to hire a school security guard. Security guards keep a watchful eye over the students and school, and can respond to warning signs before they escalate.
Here’s a look at the benefits of hiring a school security guard, as well as what type of security schools need and where to find the right guard for the job.
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According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were a total of 522,500 structure fires in the U.S. in 2022. One hundred and forty thousand of them occurred in commercial and non-residential structures, and more than 382,000 were in residential structures — with 80,000 in apartment buildings and multi-family homes alone.
Without a fire watch security team to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, these tragic numbers would be even higher.
In California, where there are thousands of wildfires each year, fire watch is a common and important practice. Property owners and property managers must take the necessary steps to prevent their buildings and businesses from going up in flames. Many rely on professional fire watch security teams to do it for them.
Here’s what you need to know before hiring a California security company to handle your building’s fire watch needs.
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When it comes to open windows, there’s no contest. Everyone loves a little fresh air.
And it certainly doesn’t hurt when that cool, extra airflow can replace your air conditioning and lower your energy bills.
Open windows come with plenty of perks, but might not always be the safest solution when you need a soft breeze or some ambient noise to lull you to sleep.
Before you fling open your window tonight, there are a few things you should know — including the danger in which you could be putting yourself.
If you’re a sleep-with-the-window-open kind of person, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about open-window security.
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Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or planning to purchase your dream home, deciding where to live is a big decision.
For some people, that decision is all about price. For others, it’s about location. Some folks even prioritize the size or style of the home.
But one thing that almost everyone can agree on is that no matter where they live, they want to feel safe. And that’s why so many people want to live in a gated community.
If you’re preparing to move and safety and security are your top concerns, a gated community might be the best decision you’ll ever make. Read on to learn why.
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