Security Guard Services in Switzerland

In the Canton of Zurich, all persons and companies that provide security services on a commercial basis need an operating license from the Security Directorate (Sicherheitsdirektion). Deployed security personnel do not need their own license but must meet legal requirements, and the company ensures compliance with them.

Competent Authority

Security Directorate of the Canton of Zurich (Sicherheitsdirektion Kanton Zürich), Certifications and Trade Licenses zh.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG) of the Canton of Zurich, Part 9 “Private Security Services”

License Types

• Operating license for private security companies: commercial security services in the Canton of Zurich, including for companies from other cantons or from abroad.
• License from another canton: recognized if it covers the services provided in Zurich.
• Door staff employed directly by a hospitality business: covered by the Hospitality Act (Gastgewerbegesetz) and the municipal licensing authority.
• Private traffic services: separate license from the Traffic Police of the Zurich Cantonal Police.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, EU/EFTA citizenship or a C permanent residence permit.
• Legal capacity to act.
• No conviction for a felony or misdemeanor, shown by criminal record extracts from Switzerland and the country of residence.
• For the managing person, also residence in Switzerland, a good reputation and no outstanding certificates of loss (Verlustscheine).
• Business liability insurance with coverage of at least CHF 3 million per claim event.

Training

• Practical and theoretical basic training before the first assignment, tailored to the specific duties.
• Regular continuing training.
• Article 10 of the industry’s collective labor agreement (Gesamtarbeitsvertrag) is recommended as a benchmark for basic training.

Application Process

1. Complete the application form for the operating license.
2. Enclose all documents listed on the form, no more than one month old.
3. The managing person confirms by signature knowledge of and compliance with the requirements on personnel and training.
4. Submit the application by mail at least three months before starting operations.
5. Pay the fee invoice after receipt.
6. Once granted, the company is entered in the public list of licensed companies.

Validity and Renewal

The license is unlimited in time and tied to the managing person. It lapses when the requirements are no longer met, and significant changes must be reported.

Municipal Rules

For door staff employed directly by hospitality businesses, the municipalities are responsible as the licensing authority under the Hospitality Act.

Sources

• Canton of Zurich: Operating license for private security companies
• Canton of Zurich: Applying for an operating license for security companies

The Canton of Bern regulates private security services in a dedicated law: security companies need a license from the Cantonal Police. Employees do not need a personal license but must meet personal requirements, which are checked by the managing person.

Competent Authority

Bern Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Bern) police.be.ch

Legal Basis

Act on the Provision of Security Services by Private Persons (Gesetz über das Erbringen von Sicherheitsdienstleistungen durch Private, SDPG); Ordinance on the Provision of Security Services by Private Persons (Verordnung über das Erbringen von Sicherheitsdienstleistungen durch Private, SDPV) of November 20, 2019, BSG 551.411

License Types

• License for security companies: commercial security services in the Canton of Bern.
• Notification and recognition for companies from other cantons: notification at least 15 days before work begins, with a copy of the license.
• Weapons carrying permit for employees who carry firearms or batons.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship with a right of residence and work under bilateral agreements, a permanent residence permit, or a residence permit held for at least two years.
• Private criminal record extract, no more than three months old, with no conviction incompatible with security work.
• Certificate of legal capacity from the child and adult protection authority (KESB), no more than three months old.
• Valid passport or identity card.
• For the managing person, also a debt enforcement register extract covering five years, a CV and a declaration of no dependency in the last five years.
• Business liability insurance with coverage of at least CHF 5 million.

Training

• Task-related basic training within three months of starting the job; until then, assignments only when accompanied by a trained person.
• For employment of less than three months, basic training before the first assignment.
• Managing person: appropriate security training, for example the federal certificate as a security specialist (eidgenössischer Fachausweis Sicherheitsfachfrau or Sicherheitsfachmann).

Application Process

1. Submit the application to the Cantonal Police at least 30 days before starting operations.
2. Enclose documents on the managing person: identification, criminal record and debt enforcement extracts, CV, residence details.
3. Enclose documents on the company: proof of insurance, commercial register extract, description of services, company profile with training concept, uniform concept.
4. Once the license is granted, the managing person checks the personal requirements of each employee.

Armed Assignments

The Cantonal Police publishes a list of permitted weapons and ammunition. Employees with a firearm complete the shooting program twice a year. For batons, a basic course is required before the weapons carrying permit, followed by training twice a year.

Validity and Renewal

The ordinance does not set a fixed period of validity for the license. Employees’ identification and criminal record extracts must be renewed every five years and kept for ten years.

Sources

• Bern Cantonal Police: Personal requirements for employees
• Ordinance on the Provision of Security Services by Private Persons (SDPV), BSG 551.411

In the Canton of Lucerne, anyone who carries out guarding assignments on a commercial basis needs a license from the competent department. Personnel do not need their own license but must meet the same personal requirements as the responsible person.

Competent Authority

Lucerne Police (Luzerner Polizei), Weapons and Explosives Unit (on behalf of the competent department) polizei.lu.ch

Legal Basis

Act on the Lucerne Police of January 27, 1998 (Gesetz über die Luzerner Polizei, SRL No. 350), sections 28 to 31; Ordinance on the Lucerne Police of April 6, 2004 (Verordnung über die Luzerner Polizei), section 14

License Types

• License to carry out commercial guarding assignments: for natural persons and legal entities.
• Weapons carrying permit for firearms or non-firearm weapons: to be stated in the application for each person deployed.

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act.
• Swiss citizenship or a permanent residence permit, and residence in Switzerland.
• No conviction in the last five years for offenses against life and limb, sexual morality or property.
• Good reputation.
• Personnel must meet the same requirements, verifiable at any time.
• Legal entities designate a responsible representative who meets the requirements.

Application Process

1. Complete the application form “Application to carry out commercial guarding assignments in the Canton of Lucerne” (Gesuch zur Ausübung von gewerbsmässigen Bewachungsaufträgen im Kanton Luzern).
2. Enclose documents: identification, CV and debt enforcement register extract of the managing person.
3. For the company, enclose a certified commercial register extract, company profile, debt enforcement register extract, confirmation of insurance and a list of employees.
4. Foreign companies also enclose a criminal record extract with a German translation.
5. Send the application to the Weapons and Explosives Unit no later than three months before starting operations.
6. Licenses granted are published on the Lucerne Police website.

Armed Assignments

The application must list the weapons carrying permits of the managing person and of personnel, separated into firearms and non-firearm weapons.

Validity and Renewal

No fixed period of validity is stated. The license may be subject to conditions and is revoked if the requirements are no longer met. Changes in personnel must be reported within ten days.

Sources

• Lucerne Police: Application to carry out commercial guarding assignments in the Canton of Lucerne (as of January 2023)

In the Canton of Uri, anyone who provides property or personal protection, transport of valuables or alarm monitoring centers on a commercial basis needs a license from the Security Directorate. Applications are reviewed by the Uri Cantonal Police; there is no separate license for employees, but there are minimum training requirements.

Competent Authority

Uri Security Directorate (Sicherheitsdirektion Uri) (licensing authority), Uri Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Uri) (application review and supervision) ur.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act of the Canton of Uri (Polizeigesetz, PolG) of November 30, 2008, RB 3.8111, Art. 60; Directive of the Security Directorate on private security services of September 1, 2021

License Types

• License for private security services: property and personal protection, transport of valuables, alarm monitoring centers, security tasks for public bodies, and private detectives.
• Equivalent license from another canton: recognized on presentation of a copy.
• Company ID card for employees showing name, photo, company, and date of issue and expiry date.

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act of the responsible person.
• Good reputation; criminal offenses or financial irregularities may call it into question.
• Swiss criminal record extract, no more than three months old.
• Municipal certificate of good conduct.
• For foreign nationals, also a residence permit.
• Proof of business liability insurance.

Training

• Basic theory training: at least 20 hours for employees paid monthly, at least 10 hours for employees paid hourly.
• Basic training covers rights and duties as well as first aid.
• Annual continuing training: at least 8 hours for employees paid monthly, at least 4 hours for employees paid hourly.

Application Process

1. Address the application to the Uri Cantonal Police in Altdorf; electronic submission is also possible.
2. Provide details of the company, the responsible person and the services.
3. Enclose a criminal record extract, identification, certificate of good conduct, commercial register entry, proof of training, company profile and proof of insurance.
4. The Cantonal Police reviews the application, and the Security Directorate grants the license.
5. Entry in the register of licensed companies.

Validity and Renewal

Licenses are granted for a maximum of four years, on condition that recognized quality standards are met, in particular the industry collective labor agreement (GAV).

Sources

• Canton of Uri: Directive of the Security Directorate on private security services (September 1, 2021)
• Canton of Uri: Report and proposal of the Government Council on withdrawal from the KÜPS (2019)

The Canton of Schwyz has no general cantonal license requirement for private security services; the Police Act contains no provisions on the subject. The Cantonal Police grants private security companies an authorization only for searches at sporting events under the Hooligan Concordat.

Competent Authority

Schwyz Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Schwyz) (authorization under the Hooligan Concordat only) sz.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG) of March 22, 2000, SRSZ 520.110, section 19b(2)(b)

License Types

• No cantonal license for private security services.
• Authorization from the Cantonal Police for private security companies to conduct searches under Art. 3b(2) of the Hooligan Concordat.

Municipal Rules

For events, the local licensing authority of the municipality or district may require the use of a security service as a condition.

Sources

• Canton of Schwyz: Police Act (PolG), SRSZ 520.110
• Canton of Schwyz: Response to minor interpellation (Kleine Anfrage) KA 42/25 (October 2025)
• Schwyz Cantonal Police: Security at events in the Canton of Schwyz

In the Canton of Obwalden, companies that offer private security services on a commercial basis in public or semi-public spaces need a license from the Government Council (Regierungsrat). Employees do not need their own license but must meet the personal requirements and be trained.

Competent Authority

Government Council of the Canton of Obwalden (Regierungsrat des Kantons Obwalden) ow.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG) of the Canton of Obwalden of March 11, 2010, GDB 510.1, Art. 41 to 45

License Types

• Government Council license for security companies: guarding, personal protection, secure transport of goods or valuables, and control and security services at events.
• Equivalent licenses from other cantons or from abroad: recognized on proper proof.
• Company ID card for employees, to be shown on request.

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act.
• Swiss citizenship or a permanent residence permit, and residence in Switzerland.
• No relevant conviction for offenses against life and limb, sexual integrity or property, or under narcotics law.
• Good reputation.
• Adequate business liability insurance.
• Deployment only of personnel who meet the same personal requirements.

Training

• Appropriate training of personnel with regular continuing training.

Application Process

1. Address the license application to the Government Council.
2. Provide proof of the personal requirements of the responsible person and of insurance.
3. Once the license is granted, issue company ID cards to personnel.

Validity and Renewal

No fixed period of validity. The license may be subject to conditions and is revoked if the requirements cease to be met or conditions are breached; in minor cases a warning is possible.

Sources

• Canton of Obwalden: Police Act (PolG), GDB 510.1

The Canton of Nidwalden joined the Concordate on Private Security Services (KÜPS) and designates the police as the licensing authority in its Police Act. However, the concordate never entered into force, so no licensing procedure in actual use was found on official websites.

Competent Authority

Nidwalden Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Nidwalden) (designated as licensing authority under the KÜPS) nw.ch

Legal Basis

Act on Policing (Gesetz über das Polizeiwesen, Polizeigesetz, PolG) of June 11, 2014, NG 911.1, Art. 3; Concordate on Private Security Services, NG 911.2

License Types

• License under the Concordate on Private Security Services (KÜPS): provided for, but the concordate is not in force.

Sources

• Canton of Nidwalden: Police Act (PolG), NG 911.1 (via LexFind)
• Canton of Uri: Report and proposal of the Government Council on withdrawal from the KÜPS (2019)
• Canton of Basel-Stadt: Report of the Government Council on the Gander motion (November 2024)

In the Canton of Glarus, private security, public order and detective services are supervised by the Cantonal Police. The Police Act allows the Government Council to introduce a license requirement; no corresponding implementing ordinance was found on official websites.

Competent Authority

Glarus Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Glarus) (supervision); competent department (prohibition or revocation) gl.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act of the Canton of Glarus of May 6, 2007, GS V A/11/1, Art. 38(3) and Art. 40 to 43

License Types

• A license requirement may be introduced by the Government Council (discretionary provision); no ordinance found.

Requirements

• Duty to inform the Cantonal Police of measures taken and planned.
• Reporting of relevant incidents to the Cantonal Police.
• Confidentiality regarding observations of police activity.
• No risk of confusion with the police is permitted.

Validity and Renewal

The competent department may prohibit the activity or revoke a license, for example for repeated violations or a conviction, usually after a prior warning.

Municipal Rules

Event organizers must provide adequate public order and security services.

Sources

• Canton of Glarus: Police Act, GS V A/11/1

According to the Government Council’s responses, the Canton of Zug has no license requirement for private security companies. In 2012 the Cantonal Council (Kantonsrat) rejected joining the Concordate on Private Security Services.

Competent Authority

No cantonal licensing authority for private security services zg.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act of the Canton of Zug (BGS 512.1); no specific rules for private security services

License Types

• No cantonal license for private security services.

Municipal Rules

Under section 3 of the Police Act, sovereign powers for police measures and police coercion may not be delegated to private parties.

Sources

• Canton of Zug: Response of the Government Council to the interpellation on security service providers (2015)
• Canton of Zug: Response of the Government Council to the interpellation on security firms (2011)

The Canton of Fribourg applies the intercantonal Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité). Security companies need an operating license, and the security personnel they deploy require a license, which is administered by the Cantonal Police.

Competent Authority

Fribourg Cantonal Police (enforcement), under the supervision of the competent cantonal directorate fr.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité, CES) of October 18, 1996, version of April 1, 2014

License Types

• Autorisation d’exploiter (operating authorization): operation of a security company or a branch
• Autorisation d’engager du personnel (authorization to hire personnel): employment of security agents
• Autorisation d’exercer (authorization to practice): deployment of agents of out-of-canton companies with no registered office in the concordat area
• Autorisation d’utiliser un chien (authorization to use a dog): use of a dog on duty

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, EU/EFTA citizenship, or a permanent residence permit or a residence permit held for at least two years
• Legal capacity to act
• Solvency, with no final certificates of loss
• Good reputation based on background, character and conduct
• A passed examination on basic theoretical knowledge of the profession
• Company liability insurance

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge as a license requirement
• Basic and continuing training by the company, confirmed by written tests

Application Process

1. Take the examination on basic theoretical knowledge
2. Submit the license application to the Cantonal Police through the employing company
3. The authority checks reputation, solvency and residence status
4. Wait for the license decision and only then be deployed

Armed Assignments

Acquiring and carrying weapons is governed by special legislation. Weapons must be carried discreetly on public land and in publicly accessible places. Force is permitted only in self-defense and in a state of necessity.

Validity and Renewal

Operating and hiring authorizations are generally valid for four years. The renewal application must be submitted at least two months before expiry. Dog authorizations are valid for two years.

Municipal Rules

Since the 2014 revision of the concordat, employees of stores and public businesses who are entrusted with security and surveillance tasks also need a license.

Sources

• Canton of Fribourg: Store security staff are now subject to the Concordat on Security Companies
• Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité) (text published by the Canton of Neuchâtel)

In the Canton of Solothurn, private security service providers need a license from the Solothurn Cantonal Police (Polizei Kanton Solothurn) under the Cantonal Police Act. The application is submitted by the responsible managing person together with a list of personnel.

Competent Authority

Solothurn Cantonal Police (Polizei Kanton Solothurn) so.ch

Legal Basis

Cantonal Police Act of September 23, 1990 (Gesetz über die Kantonspolizei, BGS 511.11, sections 45 et seq.) and Ordinance on Private Detectives and Security Companies of May 21, 1991 (Verordnung über Privatdetektive und Sicherheitsunternehmen, BGS 511.131)

License Types

• License for private security service providers: personal and property protection, guarding of goods and valuables, control and traffic services, alarm monitoring centers
• License as a private detective: investigative work
• Recognition of licenses from other cantons

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act
• Swiss citizenship, or foreign nationals with a permanent residence permit
• Impeccable reputation
• Criminal record extract, no more than three months old
• Debt enforcement register extract covering the last three years for the company and the responsible person
• No sentence of imprisonment of more than six months
• No unsuccessful seizure of assets (fruchtlose Pfändung) or certificates of loss in the three years before the application
• Commercial register extract showing sole signing authority

Application Process

1. Read the regulations and information sheet of the Solothurn Cantonal Police
2. Complete the application form and the questionnaire for security firms
3. Enclose documents such as proof of residence, register extracts, the personnel list, and photos of uniforms and vehicles
4. Submit the application well before the first assignment
5. Interview with the Cantonal Police and review of the application
6. Receive the decision, pay the fee and receive the license by mail

Armed Assignments

A copy of any weapons carrying permit must be enclosed with the application.

Validity and Renewal

Under the ordinance, the license is valid for four years. The extension application must be submitted three months before expiry.

Municipal Rules

Uniforms must be clearly distinguishable from those of the police.

Sources

• Canton of Solothurn: Private security companies, applying for a license
• Solothurn Cantonal Police: Application form FO 3014
• Ordinance on Private Detectives and Security Companies (BGS 511.131)

In the Canton of Basel-Stadt, the Cantonal Police issues licenses for commercial armed personal protection, the guarding of goods and valuables, and work as a private detective under the cantonal Police Act. The canton withdrew from the Concordate on Private Security Services at the end of 2018 and applies its own rules.

Competent Authority

Basel-Stadt Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Basel-Stadt) bs.ch

Legal Basis

Act on the Cantonal Police of the Canton of Basel-Stadt (Gesetz betreffend die Kantonspolizei des Kantons Basel-Stadt, Police Act, SG 510.100), sections 62 to 65

License Types

• License for commercial armed personal protection
• License for guarding goods and valuables, including dangerous goods, and for cash and valuables transport
• License for work as a private detective
• Employed work in personal protection and as a private detective also requires a license

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act
• Good reputation
• Swiss and foreign nationals are eligible
• For legal entities, a responsible person in a senior position who meets the requirements
• Proof of liability insurance

Application Process

1. Submit the license application to the Basel-Stadt Cantonal Police
2. Enclose proof of legal capacity, reputation and liability insurance
3. Where applicable, present an equivalent license from another canton for recognition
4. Wait for the Cantonal Police’s license decision

Armed Assignments

Commercial armed personal protection requires a license. The license does not confer any sovereign powers.

Municipal Rules

License holders must inform the police of measures taken or planned and report special incidents. Confusion with the police must be avoided.

Sources

• Canton of Basel-Stadt: Press release on withdrawal from the Concordate on Private Security Services (2017)
• Act on the Cantonal Police of the Canton of Basel-Stadt (SG 510.100)

In the Canton of Basel-Landschaft, natural persons and legal entities that provide security services on a commercial basis need an operating license from the canton under the Police Act. The company is responsible for ensuring that its employees meet the legal requirements.

Competent Authority

Basel-Landschaft Police (Polizei Basel-Landschaft), Security Directorate baselland.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG, SGS 700), sections 51a et seq., version in force since July 1, 2021

License Types

• Cantonal operating license: commercial security services such as door supervision, guarding, personal protection, transport of valuables, entry controls and patrols
• License for traffic services on public roads: a separate police unit

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, EU/EFTA citizenship or a permanent residence permit; for management, also residence in Switzerland
• No entry for a felony or misdemeanor in the criminal record extract
• No certificates of loss
• Business liability insurance with coverage of at least CHF 3 million
• Employees must meet the requirements on citizenship, residence and criminal record

Training

• Appropriate training and continuing training of employees, ensured by the company

Application Process

1. Check whether an exemption applies, such as a license from another canton
2. Submit the operating license application to the canton
3. Enclose proof regarding management, criminal record, certificates of loss and insurance
4. Wait for the license decision

Municipal Rules

Companies with a license from another canton are exempt. In-house security services are exempt, except in food service, entertainment, leisure and sports, at temporary events, and in heavily frequented businesses with increased potential for conflict.

Sources

• Canton of Basel-Landschaft: Amendment of the Police Act (GS 2021.043)
• Canton of Basel-Landschaft: Private security services

In the Canton of Schaffhausen, both security companies and security employees need a license from the Schaffhausen Police (Schaffhauser Polizei) under the Police Act and the Police Ordinance. The license for employees is valid for three years.

Competent Authority

Schaffhausen Police (Schaffhauser Polizei) rechtsbuch.sh.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, SHR 354.100), Art. 27 and 27a, and Police Ordinance (Polizeiverordnung, PolV, SHR 354.111), sections 31a et seq., as of January 1, 2025

License Types

• License for security employees: personal license for deployment in security services
• License for security companies and branches: operation of a security company

Requirements

• Copy of identity card or passport
• Certificate of legal capacity
• Criminal record extract and debt enforcement register extract, each no more than three months old
• Proof of residence for the last five years and a CV
• No pending criminal proceedings for a misdemeanor or felony
• For companies, liability insurance of at least CHF 3 million, a commercial register extract, proof of personnel licenses and a uniform concept with photos

Application Process

1. Submit a complete application with all enclosures to the Schaffhausen Police
2. The police check reputation and suitability
3. Wait for the license decision
4. Be deployed only after the license has been granted

Validity and Renewal

The license is valid for three years. The extension application must be submitted at least 90 days before expiry, and the extension is again valid for three years.

Municipal Rules

Assignments in public spaces must generally be reported to the police at least three working days in advance. Out-of-canton providers report to the police before starting work. Service dogs must have completed protection training. Uniforms must be clearly distinguishable from police uniforms.

Sources

• Police Ordinance of the Canton of Schaffhausen (SHR 354.111)
• Canton of Schaffhausen: Government Council response to minor interpellation (Kleine Anfrage) 2025/24

In the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, all persons who carry out guarding or other public order and security tasks on a commercial basis, including employees, need a license from the Police Command (Polizeikommando). The license must be renewed annually.

Competent Authority

Appenzell Ausserrhoden Police Command (Polizeikommando Appenzell Ausserrhoden) (Cantonal Police) ar.ch

Legal Basis

Ordinance on Private Police-Like Activities of June 8, 2004 (Verordnung über die privaten polizeiähnlichen Tätigkeiten, bGS 521.14), based on Art. 44 of the Police Act (bGS 521.1)

License Types

• License for private police-like activities: guarding of persons and property, and public order and security tasks at events and in businesses
• Also applies to employees and agents; personal and non-transferable
• Investigation and surveillance of persons: additional proof of legal knowledge

Requirements

• Assurance of proper performance of duties by the owner, management and personnel
• Criminal record extract and debt enforcement register extract
• CV and proof of residence for the last five years
• No prison sentence for a felony or misdemeanor still on record
• No pending criminal proceedings for such an offense
• Adequate liability insurance and a commercial register extract

Training

• For investigation and surveillance, sufficient knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, police law and weapons law, examined by the Police Command where applicable

Application Process

1. Submit the application to the Police Command
2. Enclose the CV, register extracts and proof of insurance
3. The authority checks reputation and trustworthiness
4. Receive the license and entry in the register of license holders

Armed Assignments

Without a special license, no weapons or items requiring a license may be carried in the performance of duties. The federal Weapons Act continues to apply.

Validity and Renewal

The license must be renewed annually. The application must be submitted at least one month before expiry.

Municipal Rules

Persons holding a license from their canton of residence may work for up to one month without an additional license. Apprentices of a license holder must be reported every six months. Security organizations that work only on private property are exempt.

Sources

• Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden: Ordinance on Private Police-Like Activities (bGS 521.14)
• Ordinance on Private Police-Like Activities, collection of laws

In the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, the Police Act empowers the Standeskommission (cantonal government) to make security services subject to a license requirement and to issue special rules. Specific cantonal licensing rules for security employees could not be confirmed in official sources.

Competent Authority

Standeskommission of Appenzell Innerrhoden (cantonal government) ai.clex.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG, GS 550.000) of April 29, 2001, Art. 23

Municipal Rules

The draft total revision of the Police Act also provides in Art. 69 that the Standeskommission may make private security services subject to a license requirement.

Sources

• Police Act of the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden (GS 550.000)
• Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden: Draft Police Act, consultation

In the Canton of St. Gallen, security firms need an operating license, and all security employees and door staff at food service businesses need a personal license from the St. Gallen Cantonal Police, SIWAS Division. Security employees must show completion of a basic course of at least 20 hours.

Competent Authority

St. Gallen Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei St.Gallen), SIWAS Division sg.ch

Legal Basis

Cantonal license requirement for security firms according to the St. Gallen Cantonal Police; Private Detectives Ordinance (Privatdetektivverordnung, PDV, sGS 451.13) for private detectives

License Types

• Operating license for security firms: commercial guarding of persons or third-party property and police-like public order tasks
• License for security employees: all security employees and door staff at food service businesses
• License for private detectives under the PDV
• License for traffic services on public roads from the Traffic Police

Requirements

• Assurance of proper performance of duties
• No ongoing criminal proceedings incompatible with the work
• No incompatible conviction in the last five years
• Criminal record extract and debt enforcement register extract, each no more than three months old
• For residents abroad, also extracts from the home country and a work authorization
• For firms, no certificates of loss, proof of sufficient legal knowledge and liability insurance of at least CHF 5 million per claim event

Training

• Basic course for security personnel of at least 20 hours according to the standards of the Association of Swiss Security Service Companies (VSSU)

Application Process

1. Complete the application form for security employees
2. Submit the enclosures to the management of the firm or food service business
3. Management reviews the file and sends it to the SIWAS Division
4. Wait for the Cantonal Police’s license decision

Validity and Renewal

The operating license for firms is valid for four years.

Municipal Rules

Firms with an equivalent license from another canton may work without a new license but must report assignments to the SIWAS Division. Guarding private property that is not publicly accessible does not by itself require a license.

Sources

• Canton of St. Gallen: Security firms

The Canton of Graubünden has no general license requirement in its Police Act for private security companies and security employees. The Graubünden Cantonal Police issues licenses to private security companies for traffic services on public roads.

Competent Authority

Graubünden Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Graubünden) gr.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act of the Canton of Graubünden (Polizeigesetz, PolG, BR 613.000), Art. 34; for traffic services, Art. 67(3) of the Road Signs Ordinance (SSV) and Art. 9 of the cantonal Introductory Act to the Road Traffic Act (EGzSVG)

License Types

• License for traffic services: traffic control on public roads and squares by private security companies
• Delegation of police tasks to third parties: public law contract with the canton or municipality

Requirements

• Where police tasks are delegated, the suitability required for the tasks
• Appearance, badges, vehicles and identification clearly different from those of the cantonal and municipal police

Municipal Rules

Municipalities must report the delegation of police tasks to third parties to the Cantonal Police. Event organizers must provide an adequate public order and security service.

Sources

• Police Act of the Canton of Graubünden (BR 613.000)
• Graubünden Cantonal Police: List of licensed private security services for traffic services
• Canton of Graubünden: Press release on withdrawal from the KÜPS (2018)

Private security companies in the Canton of Aargau need a license from the Cantonal Police. Individual employees do not receive a personal license but must be reported to the SIWAS Unit before their first assignment.

Competent Authority

Aargau Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Aargau), SIWAS Unit (Security Services, Weapons, Explosives) ag.ch

Legal Basis

Police Act (Polizeigesetz, PolG, SAR 531.200), Police Ordinance (Polizeiverordnung, PolV, SAR 531.211) and the Directives of the Head of the Department of Economic Affairs and Interior on the activities of private security services (in force since February 1, 2023).

License Types

• License for private security companies: personal protection, private detective work, and guarding of land, buildings, dangerous goods and transports of valuables on behalf of third parties.
• Reporting procedure for employees: registration of each person deployed before their first assignment.
• Recognition procedure: recognition of an equivalent license from another canton.
• No license required: security work on one’s own behalf, such as in-house plant and personal protection.

Requirements

• Managing person: legal capacity to act and good reputation.
• Managing person: criminal record extract and debt enforcement register extract, no more than three months old.
• Managing person: proof of basic training in running a security company.
• Employees: impeccable reputation and sound financial circumstances.
• Employees: criminal record and debt enforcement extracts on request.
• Employees: company ID card with photo, name, company, and date of issue and expiry date.

Training

• Basic theory training of at least 20 hours for employees.
• Annual continuing training of at least 8 hours for employees paid monthly.
• Annual continuing training of at least 4 hours for employees paid hourly.
• A training and continuing training concept must be submitted to the authority.

Application Process

1. Submit the application form for private security services with enclosures to the SIWAS Unit.
2. The Cantonal Police reviews the application and decides.
3. The company is entered in the register of licensed security services.
4. Report each employee using the reporting form before their first assignment.

Armed Assignments

Carrying weapons is permitted only within the framework of federal weapons law.

Validity and Renewal

Annual continuing training requirement for employees. The directives do not state a fixed period of validity for the license.

Municipal Rules

Municipalities that use private security services for local security tasks need the consent of the Department of Economic Affairs and Interior.

Sources

• Canton of Aargau: Private security services
• Directives on the activities of private security services (from February 1, 2023)

In the Canton of Thurgau, commercial guarding of persons and third-party property, and taking on police-like tasks at private events, require a license. Licenses are issued by the Department of Justice and Security, and applications are processed by the Thurgau Cantonal Police.

Competent Authority

Department of Justice and Security (Departement für Justiz und Sicherheit); Thurgau Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Thurgau), Weapons, Explosives and Private Police-Like Activities Unit kapo.tg.ch

Legal Basis

Ordinance of the Government Council on Private Police-Like Activities of March 8, 1982 (Verordnung des Regierungsrates über die privaten polizeiähnlichen Tätigkeiten, RB 553.1).

License Types

• License for private police-like activities: guarding of persons or third-party property.
• License for police-like tasks at private events.
• License for investigation and surveillance work (detective agency).
• Additional license for traffic services on public roads.
• No license required: in-house plant and personal protection organizations within the company’s own premises.

Requirements

• Legal capacity to act.
• Residence or business domicile in the Canton of Thurgau.
• Reliability based on background and training.
• CV, extract from the Swiss Central Criminal Register and debt enforcement register extract.
• Refusal in the case of a prison sentence for a felony or serious misdemeanor, as long as the entry remains on record.
• For investigative work: Swiss citizenship or a permanent residence permit, and sufficient legal knowledge.

Training

• Proof of training for the service areas applied for must be enclosed with the application.
• The ordinance does not set a specific number of hours.

Application Process

1. Obtain the application form for security firms from the Thurgau Cantonal Police.
2. Enclose a company concept, commercial register extract, proof of liability insurance, uniform photos and a list of employees.
3. Enclose the personal documents of the responsible person: CV, proof of training, debt enforcement register extract, copy of identification and passport photos.
4. Decision by the Department of Justice and Security.

Armed Assignments

The application form asks about weapons carrying permits and authorizations for batons, Jet Protect and firearms; federal weapons law is decisive.

Validity and Renewal

Under the ordinance, the license must be renewed annually.

Sources

• Ordinance of the Government Council on Private Police-Like Activities (Thurgau Cantonal Police)
• Thurgau Cantonal Police: Security firm application
• Thurgau Cantonal Police: List of licensed security firms

In the Canton of Ticino, private security services have been regulated since June 1, 2021 by the Act on Private Security and Investigation Services (Legge sulle prestazioni private di sicurezza e investigazione, LPPS). Security agencies, their responsible persons and every security agent need a license from the Department, which is applied for through the Cantonal Police.

Competent Authority

Cantonal Police (Polizia cantonale), Weapons, Explosives and Private Security Service (Servizio armi, esplosivi e sicurezza privata) (Department of Institutions, Dipartimento delle istituzioni) m3.ti.ch

Legal Basis

Act on Private Security and Investigation Services (Legge sulle prestazioni private di sicurezza e investigazione, LPPS) of November 9, 2020 and its Regulation (Regolamento della legge sulle prestazioni private di sicurezza e investigazione, RLPPS) of April 14, 2021.

License Types

• License for security or investigation agencies.
• License to manage an agency (rappresentante responsabile).
• License for security agents or private detectives employed by an agency.
• License for self-employed work.
• Reporting requirement for the use of service dogs.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a residence permit.
• Full legal capacity to act and good reputation.
• No criminal record entry for violent offenses, offenses causing public danger or repeated offenses.
• No bankruptcy and no certificates of loss.
• Criminal record extract and certificate from the debt enforcement office, no more than three months old.
• For responsible persons: a residence permit held for at least two years, if not a Swiss, EU or EFTA national.
• For self-employed persons and agencies: professional liability insurance.

Training

• Specific training for the activity applied for, with a certificate in accordance with the regulation.
• Mandatory continuing training courses in accordance with the departmental regulation.
• Special courses at the Regional Police Training Center (Centro regionale formazione di polizia): searching persons, traffic control, and enforcement of parking and pedestrian zones.

Application Process

1. Complete the official application form; for legal entities, through the legal representative.
2. Enclose a criminal record extract, debt enforcement certificate, copy of identification, training certificate and, where applicable, residence permit.
3. For residence abroad in the last five years, enclose the corresponding foreign certificates.
4. Submit the application to the Weapons, Explosives and Private Security Service (Servizio armi, esplosivi e sicurezza privata).
5. Decision by the Department.

Armed Assignments

Weapons may be carried only to protect seriously threatened persons or goods or during secured transports, as a rule only handguns or batons (Art. 9 RLPPS); federal weapons law continues to apply.

Validity and Renewal

The license is valid for three years and can be renewed on application, provided the requirements are still met. For a new license after expiry, proof of continuing training is required.

Municipal Rules

Persons and companies from other cantons must register with the Department before working in Ticino.

Sources

• Act on Private Security and Investigation Services (LPPS)
• Regulation of the Act on Private Security and Investigation Services (RLPPS)

The Canton of Vaud applies the Concordat on Security Companies (CES), supplemented by the cantonal Security Companies Act. The security company applies to the Vaud Cantonal Police for an operating license and for a concordat card for each security agent.

Competent Authority

Vaud Cantonal Police (Police cantonale vaudoise), Private Security Office (Bureau de la sécurité privée) vd.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité, C-ESéc) of October 18, 1996 (RSV 935.91), Security Companies Act (Loi sur les entreprises de sécurité, LESéc) of September 22, 1998 (RSV 935.27) and Security Companies Regulation (Règlement sur les entreprises de sécurité, RLESéc) of July 7, 2004 (RSV 935.27.1).

License Types

• License to operate a security company or an alarm monitoring center.
• License to employ security agents (concordat card).
• License for company managers and branch managers.
• License for the use of dogs, with an aptitude test.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a permanent residence permit or a residence permit held for at least two years.
• Enjoyment of civil rights.
• Solvency, with no final certificates of loss.
• Assurance of good character in accordance with the guideline of the Concordat Commission.
• Criminal record extract (bulletin no. 2).

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge for security agents (Art. 9 CES).
• Basic training before starting work and continuing training during employment, provided by the company (Art. 15A CES).
• Concordat examination on the applicable legislation for company managers and branch managers.

Application Process

1. The employing company completes the application form on a computer.
2. Gather the enclosures listed on the checklist, including the criminal record extract.
3. Send the application by mail to the Vaud Cantonal Police.
4. Review by the authority takes about 15 days in simple cases and up to three months in complex cases.
5. The concordat card is issued in the name of the employer.

Armed Assignments

Acquiring and carrying firearms is governed by federal and cantonal weapons legislation; weapons must be carried discreetly in public (Art. 21 CES).

Validity and Renewal

The license is generally valid for four years and must be renewed at least two months before expiry. The dog license is valid for two years.

Municipal Rules

The concordat card is tied to the employer; when an agent changes jobs, the new employer needs its own license. A cantonal guideline applies to surveillance staff in hospitality businesses and stores.

Sources

• Canton of Vaud: Security companies
• Canton of Vaud: Authorization to employ a security agent
• Canton of Vaud: Concordat FAQ
• Concordat on Security Companies (Geneva systematic collection of laws, consolidated version)

The Canton of Valais has joined the Concordat on Security Companies (CES). Security companies, their responsible persons and security agents need a concordat license from the authority of the canton where the company has its registered office.

Competent Authority

Competent cantonal authority of the Canton of Valais under Art. 7 CES and the Security Companies Regulation (Règlement sur les entreprises de sécurité) lex.vs.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité) of October 18, 1996 (RS 550.3), Act on the Accession of the Canton of Valais to the Concordat on Security Companies (Loi concernant l’adhésion du canton du Valais au concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité) of February 11, 1998, and Security Companies Regulation (Règlement sur les entreprises de sécurité, RS 550.300).

License Types

• License to operate a security company.
• License to employ security agents and branch managers.
• License to practice for agents of companies with no registered office in a concordat canton.
• License for the use of dogs.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a corresponding residence or permanent residence permit.
• Enjoyment of civil rights.
• Assurance of good character.
• For company managers, also solvency and a passed examination on the applicable legislation.
• For the company: liability insurance in accordance with the concordat.

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge for security agents (Art. 9 CES).
• Basic training before starting work and continuing training during employment (Art. 15A CES).
• Concordat examination for company managers and branch managers.

Application Process

1. The employing company submits the application to the authority of the canton where it has its registered office.
2. The authority checks the personal requirements.
3. The concordat card is issued, valid in all concordat cantons.

Armed Assignments

Acquiring and carrying firearms is governed by federal and cantonal weapons legislation; weapons must be carried discreetly in public (Art. 21 CES).

Validity and Renewal

The license is generally valid for four years; the renewal application must be submitted at least two months before expiry. The dog license is valid for two years.

Sources

• Concordat on Security Companies, RS 550.3 (LexFind, Valais)
• Security Companies Regulation, RS 550.300 (Canton of Valais)
• Collection of laws of the Canton of Valais 1999 (Act of accession to the concordat)
• Concordat on Security Companies (consolidated version)

The Canton of Neuchâtel applies the Concordat on Security Companies (CES). The Neuchâtel Police issues licenses for companies and for security agents and conducts the examinations; Neuchâtel also runs the secretariat of the Concordat Commission.

Competent Authority

Neuchâtel Police (Police neuchâteloise), Private Security (Sécurité privée) rsn.ne.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité) of October 18, 1996 and Implementing Decree for the Concordat on Security Companies (Arrêté d’exécution du concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité) of December 14, 1998 (RSN 568.100).

License Types

• License to operate a security company (autorisation d’exploiter).
• License to employ or to practice as a security agent or dog handler.
• Concordat ID card for company management, branch management, agents and dog handlers.
• License for the use of dogs, with an aptitude test.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a corresponding residence or permanent residence permit.
• Enjoyment of civil rights.
• Assurance of good character.
• For company managers, also solvency and a passed examination on the profession and legislation.

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge for security agents (Art. 9 CES).
• Job-related awareness courses during employment, with at least one instruction session per year recorded in a register of names.
• Examination for company managers and branch managers, held at least once a year.

Application Process

1. The company submits the written application on the prescribed forms to the Neuchâtel Police.
2. Enclose the documents required by the guidelines of the Concordat Commission.
3. Review and decision by the Neuchâtel Police.
4. The concordat ID card is issued.

Armed Assignments

Companies must issue written internal rules on carrying and using weapons, approved by the Neuchâtel Police, and hold shooting practice every four months with a control register. Otherwise, federal weapons legislation and Art. 21 CES apply.

Validity and Renewal

The license is generally valid for four years. For renewal, updated information must be submitted on the Commission’s forms; the Commission decides whether the examination must be retaken.

Sources

• Implementing Decree for the Concordat on Security Companies (RSN 568.100)
• Concordat on Security Companies (consolidated version)
• Canton of Vaud: Concordat FAQ (Commission secretariat in Neuchâtel)

The Canton of Geneva applies the Concordat on Security Companies (CES). Applications for companies and security agents are submitted to the Weapons, Private Security and Explosives Brigade (Brigade des armes, de la sécurité privée et des explosifs, BASPE).

Competent Authority

Weapons, Private Security and Explosives Brigade (Brigade des armes, de la sécurité privée et des explosifs, BASPE), cantonal service ge.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité, CES) of October 18, 1996 (RSG I 2 14) and Regulation on the Concordat on Security Companies (Règlement concernant le concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité, RCES).

License Types

• License to operate a security company.
• License to employ security agents (concordat card).
• License for branch managers, with an examination on the legislation of the canton where the branch is located.
• Recognition of licenses from other cantons.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a corresponding residence or permanent residence permit.
• Enjoyment of civil rights.
• Assurance of good character.
• For company managers: the requirements of Art. 8 CES, a physical business address in the Canton of Geneva and a passed concordat examination.
• For the company: liability insurance in accordance with the concordat.
• Documents must be submitted in the original.

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge for security agents (Art. 9 CES).
• Basic training before starting work and continuing training during employment (Art. 15A CES).
• Concordat examination for company managers and branch managers according to the published examination calendar.

Application Process

1. Complete the official application form for the concordat license.
2. Submit a complete file with original documents to the BASPE.
3. For responsible persons: pass the concordat examination.
4. Decision and issue of the concordat card.

Armed Assignments

Acquiring and carrying firearms is governed by federal and cantonal weapons legislation; weapons must be carried discreetly in public (Art. 21 CES).

Validity and Renewal

The license is renewed every four years; the file with the expiring card must be submitted at least two months before expiry.

Sources

• Republic and Canton of Geneva: Private security companies
• Republic and Canton of Geneva: Becoming a security agent
• Republic and Canton of Geneva: Starting a security company
• Concordat on Security Companies (RSG I 2 14)

The Canton of Jura is a member of the Concordat on Security Companies (CES). Concordat licenses for companies, responsible persons and security agents are applied for at the Cantonal Police’s Office for Weapons, Alarms and Security Companies (Bureau des armes, alarmes et entreprises de sécurité).

Competent Authority

Jura Cantonal Police (Police cantonale jurassienne), Office for Weapons, Alarms and Security Companies (Bureau des armes, alarmes et entreprises de sécurité, AAES) jura.ch

Legal Basis

Concordat on Security Companies (Concordat sur les entreprises de sécurité, CES) of October 18, 1996, which the Canton of Jura joined in 1999.

License Types

• Concordat license to operate a security company.
• Concordat license for agency managers and security agents.
• Concordat license for the use of dogs.

Requirements

• Swiss citizenship, citizenship of an EU or EFTA state, or a corresponding residence or permanent residence permit.
• Enjoyment of civil rights.
• Assurance of good character in accordance with the guideline of the Concordat Commission.
• List of tax domiciles for the last ten years.

Training

• Examination on basic theoretical knowledge for security agents (Art. 9 CES).
• Basic training, continuing training and firearms training in accordance with the guidelines of the Concordat Commission.
• Concordat examination for company managers.

Application Process

1. Obtain the application form for concordat licenses.
2. Enclose the documents on the checklist and the list of tax domiciles.
3. Submit the application to the Office for Weapons, Alarms and Security Companies.
4. Report to the authority the departure of agents or responsible persons and the loss of a card.

Armed Assignments

Acquiring and carrying firearms is governed by federal and cantonal weapons legislation; weapons must be carried discreetly in public (Art. 21 CES).

Validity and Renewal

The license is generally valid for four years; the renewal application must be submitted at least two months before expiry.

Sources

• Republic and Canton of Jura: Security companies
• Concordat on Security Companies (consolidated version)