Are Security Guards Peace Officers in Canada?
Understanding the Legal Authority of Security Guards
Many people assume security guards have the same authority as police officers. In reality, security guards in Canada are not peace officers under the Criminal Code of Canada.
Understanding this distinction is important for businesses, property managers, and members of the public. Security guards play a critical role in maintaining safety, but their powers come from different legal sources than law enforcement.
This guide explains what security guards legally can — and cannot — do in Canada, particularly in Ontario.
What Is a Peace Officer in Canada?
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a peace officer is a person granted specific law enforcement authority by legislation. This category generally includes:
Police officers
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members
Correctional officers
Border services officers
Certain government enforcement officials
Peace officers have statutory authority to investigate crimes, arrest suspects under broader circumstances, and enforce federal and provincial laws.
Security guards are not included in this definition.
Are Security Guards Peace Officers?
No. Security guards in Canada are considered private citizens performing protective services, not law enforcement officers.
Even though security personnel often wear uniforms and work closely with police, their legal authority does not come from policing legislation.
Instead, security guards operate using:
Property owner authority
Contractual responsibilities
Citizen’s powers under Canadian law
Provincial licensing regulations
This distinction ensures that security services remain preventative and supportive rather than investigative or enforcement-focused.
Where Do Security Guards Get Their Authority?
Security guards derive their authority from several legal frameworks.
1. Property Rights
When hired by a business or property owner, a security guard acts as an authorized representative of that property.
This allows guards to:
Control access to private property
Enforce site rules and policies
Ask individuals to leave premises
Address trespassing concerns
In Ontario, these powers are closely connected to the Trespass to Property Act.
2. Citizen’s Arrest Powers
Under Section 494 of the Criminal Code of Canada, any private citizen — including a security guard — may make a citizen’s arrest when:
They witness a criminal offence being committed, or
The arrest occurs shortly after the offence on or related to the property they protect.
This authority is limited and must be exercised reasonably.
Security guards must contact police promptly and transfer custody as soon as possible.
3. Provincial Regulation (Ontario – PSISA)
In Ontario, licensed security guards operate under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA).
The PSISA establishes requirements for:
Licensing
Mandatory training
Professional conduct
Use-of-force limitations
Identification and uniform standards
The legislation emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and public safety.
What Security Guards Can Do
Although not peace officers, trained security professionals can legally:
Monitor and patrol properties
Observe and report incidents
Enforce property rules
Remove trespassers from private property
Assist during emergencies
Conduct lawful citizen’s arrests when necessary
Coordinate with police and emergency services
Their primary role is prevention and risk reduction.
What Security Guards Cannot Do
Because they are not peace officers, security guards cannot:
Conduct criminal investigations
Exercise general police powers
Search individuals without consent or lawful justification
Detain people arbitrarily
Use excessive force
Represent themselves as police officers
Exceeding legal authority can result in civil or criminal liability.
Why the Difference Matters
Understanding the legal distinction between security guards and peace officers helps:
Businesses
Reduce liability risks
Set realistic expectations
Implement compliant security programs
Members of the Public
Understand their rights
Recognize lawful security actions
Avoid unnecessary conflict
Security guards are intended to prevent incidents and stabilize situations until police arrive when required.
How Security Guards Work With Police
Security guards and police officers often work cooperatively but serve different roles.
Security personnel typically:
Detect issues early
De-escalate conflicts
Secure scenes
Provide witness information
Support emergency response efforts
This partnership allows law enforcement to focus on criminal investigations while security maintains ongoing site safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are security guards law enforcement in Canada?
No. Security guards are private citizens licensed to provide protective services, not law enforcement officers.
Can security guards arrest someone?
Yes — but only under citizen’s arrest laws and limited legal conditions.
Do security guards have police powers?
No. Their authority comes from property rights and Canadian law applicable to all citizens.
Are security guards regulated in Ontario?
Yes. They must be licensed under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA).
Final Thoughts
Security guards play an essential role in protecting people, businesses, and communities across Canada. While they are not peace officers, trained security professionals operate within clearly defined legal boundaries designed to balance safety with individual rights.
Understanding these limits helps ensure security services are used effectively, professionally, and lawfully.
About Protection Security Investigations
Protection Security Investigations provides licensed security guard and mobile patrol services across Ontario. Our team focuses on prevention, professionalism, and compliance with Canadian and provincial legislation to help businesses maintain safe and secure environments.