Legal & Law

How to Become a Licensed Security Guard in Glendale, Colorado

If you’re interested in becoming a licensed security guard or armed guard in Glendale, Colorado, there are several key requirements and steps to follow. This guide will break down the process into easy-to-understand summaries and checkpoints.


1. Definitions You Need to Know

Before diving into the requirements, it’s essential to understand some key terms used in Glendale’s security guard regulations:

  • Applicant: The person applying for a merchant guard or armed guard license in Glendale.
  • Armed Guard: A security guard carrying a weapon while performing duties in Glendale.
  • Merchant Guard: A person or organization providing security services to protect people or property, not employed directly by the business they’re guarding.
  • Chief of Police: Refers to the Chief of Police of Glendale, responsible for overseeing the licensing process.

2. Who Needs a License?

In Glendale, it’s illegal to work as a merchant or armed guard without the proper license. Here are some key points:

  • Companies must obtain a license to operate within Glendale.
  • Individuals working as merchant or armed guards must also obtain a personal license.
  • Industrial guards do not need a license unless they are armed.
  • Police officers of the Glendale Police Department are exempt from these requirements.

3. Special Requirements for Armed Guards

If you plan to work as an armed guard, additional steps are necessary:

  • Firearms Training: Armed guards must complete annual firearms training, including topics like use of force, de-escalation, and firearms safety.
  • Qualification: Armed guards must qualify with their weapon on an approved course of fire and provide proof to the Glendale Police Department.
  • License Renewal: Armed guards must renew their licenses annually, including submitting a background check and various forms, like the “Firearm Training Certification” and “Medical and Character Acknowledgment.”

4. Carrying a Firearm as a Security Guard

If you want to carry a firearm as part of your duties, the following conditions apply:

  • Approval by Chief of Police: You must provide proof that you meet Glendale’s firearm qualification standards, and the firearm must be registered with the Chief of Police.
  • On-Duty Only: You are only allowed to carry the weapon while on duty, in uniform, and in an open manner (concealed carry is not permitted).
  • Employer’s Request: Your employer must submit a written request outlining why you need to carry a weapon.

5. How to Apply for a Security Guard License

To apply for a merchant or armed guard license in Glendale, follow these steps:

For armed guard companies:

  • Provide a detailed description of the business, the services offered, and the number of employees.

For individual guards:

  • Provide employment details, such as the name and address of your employer.
  • Submit a background check, including FBI history, and proof of employment with a licensed guard company.
  • Provide documentation like your firearms training certificate and other necessary forms.

6. Investigation and Approval

Once your application is submitted, the Glendale Police Department will investigate your background and character to ensure you meet the necessary requirements. If approved, you will be issued a license; if denied, you will be notified of the reason.


7. Fees and License Term

  • License Fees: Fees are set by the Glendale City Council and must be paid upon application.
  • License Validity: Licenses are valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually.

8. Uniforms, Badges, and Vehicles

Security guard uniforms, badges, and vehicles must not resemble those of the Glendale Police Department. This includes restrictions on the use of police-like markings, colors, or insignia on uniforms or vehicles.


9. Unlawful Acts and Penalties

There are specific actions that can lead to suspension or revocation of your license:

  • Interfering with Police Investigations
  • Failure to Report Firearm Discharges
  • Falsely Representing Yourself as a Police Officer

Violating any provisions of this chapter can result in a misdemeanor charge, with penalties for each day of the violation.


10. Appealing a License Denial or Revocation

If your license is denied or revoked, you have the right to appeal the decision. To do this, submit a written statement within 14 days to the Glendale City Council, who will hold a hearing to review the case.


Checkpoints for Becoming a Licensed Security Guard in Glendale:

  1. Apply for a License: Both companies and individuals must apply for a license through the Glendale Police Department.
  2. Complete Firearms Training: If you’re an armed guard, annual firearms training is required.
  3. Submit Background Checks and Forms: FBI history, character acknowledgments, and more must be included in the application.
  4. Meet Uniform and Vehicle Requirements: Ensure your gear doesn’t resemble law enforcement.
  5. Renew Your License Annually: Both individuals and companies need to renew their licenses each year.
  6. Follow the Rules: Avoid actions that could lead to penalties or license suspension.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a licensed security guard in Glendale, Colorado. For more details on application forms or specific requirements, contact the Glendale Police Department or refer to Glendale’s municipal code.


How to Contact the Glendale Police Department

If you need to contact the Glendale Police Department for assistance for Security Guard Licensing Questions, here is the key contact information:

Physical Address:

  • Location:
    950 S. Birch St.
    Glendale, CO 80246
    View Map

Phone and Fax:

  • Phone (Non-Emergency): 303-759-1511
  • Fax: 303-757-3264

Staff Contacts:

  • Police Department (Non-Emergency): 303-759-1511



Get Certified: Firearms Training for Glendale Security Guard Licensing

If you’re applying for a security guard license in Glendale and need firearms training, we’ve got you covered! Our training program meets all of Glendale’s requirements, including firearms qualification, use of force laws, de-escalation techniques, and firearm safety. To get started and ensure you’re prepared to meet the city’s standards, contact Mark Schneider at cccdinstructor@gmail.com or call 303-641-1567 today!

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law, News

Colorado’s New CCW Instructor Verification Law Takes Effect: What You Need to Know

On August 7, 2024, a significant new law came into effect in Colorado that impacts both concealed carry weapons (CCW) instructors and those seeking to obtain a CCW permit. The new law, 18-12-202.7, mandates that all CCW instructors must be verified by the sheriff in the county where they conduct their firearms training. This move is designed to ensure that all instructors meet a standardized level of qualification and uphold high standards in firearms education.

What Does the New Law Entail?

Under this new regulation, each sheriff in Colorado is responsible for verifying firearms instructors within their jurisdiction. To become a verified instructor, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Hold a Valid CCW Permit: Instructors must possess a valid concealed handgun permit issued under Colorado law. Temporary emergency permits do not qualify.
  2. Certification as a Firearms Instructor: Instructors must be certified by a recognized entity, such as a law enforcement agency, college or university, nationally recognized firearms training organization, or a firearms training school.

Once verified, instructors will receive evidence of verification from the sheriff, which will be valid for ten years. Sheriffs are also required to maintain a public list of verified instructors, which will be accessible on their websites.

Implications for CCW Instructors

The verification process ensures that instructors are fully qualified and maintain high standards in their teaching. It also provides students with confidence that their training meets the necessary legal requirements.

What This Means for CCW Applicants

For those looking to obtain a CCW permit in Colorado, the process is about to become more rigorous. While currently, the requirement is simply to complete a class, starting July 1, 2025, the new requirements will include:

  • Mandatory 8-Hour Class: The class will cover a comprehensive curriculum, including legal responsibilities, safety, and practical firearm handling.
  • Test and Shooting Qualification: Applicants must pass a test at the end of the class and achieve a shooting qualification score of 70% or higher.
  • Range Time: Mandatory range time will be required, where applicants must shoot with the handgun they intend to carry.

These upcoming changes mean that it will become more challenging to obtain a CCW permit in Colorado. Therefore, it is highly recommended that anyone considering obtaining their permit do so now while the process is still relatively straightforward.

If you’re ready to get your CCW permit before these new requirements take effect, don’t wait—Contact us today for more information and to sign up for a class.

Getting your CCW permit now will allow you to avoid the upcoming mandatory 8-hour class, range time, and qualification test that will be required next year. Don’t miss this opportunity to complete the process under the current, simpler guidelines.

For more information on the new law and how it may impact both instructors and CCW applicants, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is here to help guide you through the process and ensure you’re fully prepared for the changes ahead.

Concealed Carry

The 7-7-7 Pistol Shooting Drill

Quick Shots: Learning from Max Michel

Max Michel, a competitive shooting luminary, excels in combining speed with precision, notably in a drill where he fires at three targets, achieving a remarkable feat of seven shots per target in under seven seconds. His technique revolves around a balanced stance, allowing swift hip-led transitions and a focus on moving eyes ahead of the gun for better target alignment. He advocates starting from a low-ready position to master the basics of fast, accurate shooting and efficient reloading.

Michel’s drill, requiring three targets and aiming for 21 rounds in under seven seconds at a 7-yard distance, serves as a challenging yet instructive exercise for shooters. It emphasizes the importance of a steady grip, keen sight focus, and swift trigger work. Although matching Michel’s speed is formidable, the practice offers invaluable lessons in improving one’s shooting dynamics, underlining that the ultimate challenge lies in surpassing personal limits.

Speed-Shooting Challenge: The 7-7-7 Drill

Ready for a test of speed and accuracy? Here’s a drill inspired by top competitive shooters, designed to sharpen your skills. You’ll need:

  • Three targets (steel plates or silhouettes).
  • A pistol.
  • Three magazines (each loaded with more than seven rounds).
  • A timer.

Position yourself 7 yards away from the targets. On the start signal, engage the first target with seven rounds, perform a quick reload, and repeat for the remaining two targets, aiming to complete 21 shots in under 7 seconds.

Achieving this time is a challenge, even for experienced shooters, so focus on the process and your personal improvement. This drill isn’t just about pushing your limits; it’s about refining your technique, from stance to reloads, under the pressure of time. Enjoy the process and remember, the real competition is against your last best.