According to FBI crime data, in 2022 alone, over 400,000 motor vehicle thefts happened in parking lots and garages. In the same year, over 560,000 instances of destruction or damage to property occurred. That’s why a parking lot security guard plays a vital role in keeping people and property safe, and more.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What a parking lot security guard does, and their key responsibilities
• Key qualifications to become one
• Why it’s important to have parking lot security
• Helpful parking lot security tips
• FAQ + average salary

Let’s start by looking at what parking lot guards do.

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What does a parking lot security guard do?

Parking lot security guards are much like any other security guard. Protecting people and property is also part of their job description — except they do it in a parking lot. 

That means open spaces and, sometimes, higher risk. 

Parking lots have multiple entry points, limited barriers, and limited control over who comes and goes, unlike a building where security can lock doors or restrict access. 

Guards need to watch out for low lighting conditions, unpredictable people and traffic, and a higher risk of vehicle-related incidents, all while dealing with outdoor weather and the environment.

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Key responsibilities of parking lot security guards

A parking lot guard holds a lot of responsibility and performs many duties as they watch over and patrol the lots’ open spaces. Let’s take a look at those key duties:

• Keeping an eye on vehicles and access: Parking lot security guards watch who’s coming and going, making sure only authorized vehicles enter. They do this by manning the entry gates and checking permits. They may also watch surveillance cameras to make sure no one tries to tailgate and sneak their way in.
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• Making sure people follow parking rules: Nobody likes a blocked fire lane or cars taking up multiple spots. Security guards help to enforce parking rules by giving warnings, reminding people of regulations, and calling for towing when necessary.
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• Helping visitors: Lost your car? Need directions? Ask the lot security guard — they’re often the go-to people for assistance. They help customers, employees, and visitors find their way, provide safety escorts at night, and sometimes even assist with minor car issues like a dead battery.
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• Patrolling for security threats: While walking or driving through the lot, security guards look for anything suspicious, like people loitering, someone trying to break into a car, or signs of vandalism. They can then interrupt and scare suspicious people off (or, better yet, report to law enforcement).
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• Responding to incidents: If something goes wrong, there’s a pretty good chance that security guards are first to the scene. They step in during arguments, report vehicle break-ins, and call law enforcement if needed to prevent things from getting worse.
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• Handling emergencies: Accidents and medical issues happen in parking lots more often than you might think. Whether it's a fender bender, a slip-and-fall, or someone having a medical emergency, security guards are there to help and direct emergency responders to the right spot.

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What qualifications do parking lot security guards need?

Becoming a parking lot security guard doesn’t usually require a lot of formal education, but certain qualifications help to make sure you can be effective on the job. Here are the key requirements:

• Security license or certification: You’ll need to complete training and obtain a license to work as a parking lot security guard. This typically includes background checks, fingerprinting, and basic security coursework. Requirements vary by state, so check your local regulations before applying.
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• Physical fitness: You’ll spend a lot of time on your feet when you’re working as a parking lot guard. Staying in decent shape helps you stay alert and ready to react quickly if something happens.
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• Strong observation skills: In any type of security, a big part of the job is spotting trouble before it starts. Pay attention to details, like someone lingering near cars or checking door handles, and trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel right.
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• Communication skills: As a guard, you’ll be talking to all kinds of people, including visitors, employees, and sometimes even law enforcement. Being able to give clear directions, write up incident reports, and defuse conflicts without making things worse is a huge plus.
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• Basic first aid and emergency response training: As a guard, you’ll face crises once in a while (whether it’s a fender bender or a medical emergency). Some employers require CPR and first aid training so you can step in and help until emergency responders arrive.
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• Knowledge of parking regulations: Enforcing parking rules means knowing the difference between a minor violation and a real issue. It’s important to understand property policies, local laws, and when to call for a tow truck or law enforcement.
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• Experience with security equipment: Depending on the site, you might use surveillance cameras, two-way radios, or access control systems. If you’re comfortable with technology, it’ll make your job easier and help you keep the lot safe and secure.
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• Ability to handle high-pressure situations: The more level-headed you are, the better you’ll handle unexpected situations, whether it’s a car break-in, a heated argument, or an emergency.

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Why parking lot security is important

A parking lot without security can quickly become a target for crime, accidents, and liability issues. 

Thieves often look for unattended vehicles, making car break-ins and vandalism common issues. A visible security presence helps deter these crimes and protects both vehicles and property.

Safety is another major concern, especially for customers and employees walking to their cars at night. Security guards provide an added layer of protection by patrolling the lot, responding to concerns, and offering escorts when needed. 

Their presence also helps reduce liability risks for businesses. Parking lots can be dangerous places, with hazards like poor lighting, reckless driving, or icy walkways leading to accidents and potential lawsuits. Guards help identify risks and enforce safety measures to keep incidents to a minimum.

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5 tips for better parking lot security

Keeping a parking lot safe requires more than just having a security guard on site. A mix of technology, routine patrols, and smart planning can go a long way in preventing crime and making sure people feel safe.

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1. Implement comprehensive surveillance systems

When cameras are placed at entrances, exits, and blind spots, they make it easier to monitor activity in real time. Adding features like motion detection or remote monitoring can make them even more effective, especially when you assign guards to watch the surveillance cameras.

Some parking lots also implement smarter cameras that help prevent vehicles from tailgating and sneaking in.

It’s smart to make sure your camera system allows you to record activity so you can look back at footage or submit it to law enforcement as evidence.

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2. Keep up with regular patrols

Whether on foot or in a vehicle, regular patrols create a visible security presence that prevents people from doing bad stuff like theft, vandalism, and even some more heinous crimes like aggravated assault.

Some properties may hire security guards to handle access control, surveillance, and rule enforcement, then hire a separate mobile patrol security service to come on a schedule. 

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3. Make sure the lot is well-lit

Dark parking lots invite trouble. Installing bright lighting around entrances, exits, stairwells, and remote areas makes it harder for criminals to hide (and easier for security personnel to see what’s happening). Good lighting also makes people feel safer walking to and from their cars in the dark.

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4. Use clear signage

Signs can be a simple but powerful way to prevent crime. Posting signs about surveillance cameras, security patrols, and parking rules reminds people that the lot is being watched and that guards will not ignore violations. Plus, clear signage also helps visitors navigate the parking lot more easily.

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5. Control who has access

Limiting access makes the parking lot safer for those who are supposed to be there. Using gated entry points, permit systems, and barriers can keep unauthorized vehicles out to reduce suspicious activity and the chances of bad stuff from happening. 

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Frequently asked questions

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What is the average salary for parking lot security guards?

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for parking lot security guards is $38,183, or roughly $18 per hour.

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Do parking lot security guards patrol 24/7?

It depends on the location and security needs. Some parking lots, especially those at businesses, malls, or residential complexes, have 24/7 security, while others only require guards during peak hours or overnight. Additionally, patrols typically happen on a schedule, not on a constant rotation.

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Can parking lot security guards manage traffic control?

Yes. They often help direct traffic, enforce parking rules, and prevent congestion (especially in busy lots). They may also assist with pedestrian safety and vehicle flow during special events or peak hours.

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Are parking lot security guards armed?

Most parking lot security guards are unarmed, but it depends on the property and security risks. For example, high-risk locations like banks or high-crime areas may require armed guards.

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Manage parking lot security teams with Belfry

Having a parking lot security guard (or two) helps to keep a lot safe and secure, minimizing liabilities for the business or property. And if you manage parking lot security teams, using the right tools can help you enable your team to be much more efficient at their jobs — while also reducing your admin workload. That’s where Belfry comes in.

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that helps you manage your parking lot security operations more efficiently. 

Here’s how:

• Simpler scheduling: Belfry’s automated scheduling feature helps you to reduce downtime and allows you to assign shifts according to the sites’ requirements.
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• Less admin work: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking, helping to ensure accurate payroll, billing, and ACA compliance while reducing your administrative burden.
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• Improved officer accountability: GPS tracking features help you make sure that guards are at their posts when they should be. Geofencing alerts notify you when they leave their areas.
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• Faster incident reporting: Guards can avoid the hassle of pen and paper by using Belfry’s mobile app to submit their incident reports using detailed forms with evidence attachments.
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• Easier communication: Belfry’s mobile app includes an instant messaging feature that allows easy communication between you, your guards, and your dispatchers.

Ready to learn more about how we can help you improve admin for your parking lot security operations? Schedule a Belfry demo today.