If you’re looking into how to start a security company in Colorado, there are a few key steps you’ll need to follow, especially since the state doesn’t have a centralized licensing system. Instead, you’ll need to apply for a Colorado security license at the city or county level, which means the process can vary depending on where you plan to operate.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What licenses and paperwork you’ll need to get started
• How to train and hire guards that meet local requirements
• How to build a business that grows the right way in Colorado

Let’s jump right into the steps for starting a security company in CO.

How to start a security company in Colorado: 8 steps

Starting a security company in Colorado is a little different from other states since licensing happens at the local level. Once you know how your city handles it, the rest falls into place. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Understand Colorado’s local licensing rules

Colorado doesn’t have a statewide license for security guards or companies. Instead, licensing is handled by individual cities, each with its own application process, training requirements, and background checks.

For example:

• Denver requires a guard license (also called a guard card), 16 hours of training, fingerprinting, and a criminal background check.
  
• Westminster has its own application form, background checks, and review process handled by the City Manager’s office.

You’ll also want to be aware of HB21-1120, which affects training and oversight of some law enforcement-adjacent roles, including private security in certain jurisdictions.

You can start by checking with the city where you’ll operate and get familiar with their rules since that will shape how you move through the rest of the steps.

2. Choose your business structure and services

Before filing any paperwork, decide what kind of security company you want to run. Take some time to think about your:

• Service offerings: Will you offer unarmed guards, armed guards, or more specialized services like event security or VIP protection? It’s wise to remember that armed roles usually require extra training and firearm permits, so you’ll need to make sure your guards have those before you can offer your services to the public.
  
  
• Business structure: Choose your structure. Do you want to create an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation? An LLC is recommended to limit your liability and prevent massive losses if the business runs into issues. Once you have an idea, register it with the Colorado Secretary of State.

3. Meet local licensing and training requirements

Since Colorado handles licensing locally, your next step depends on your city’s specific rules. However, it’s good to know that there are some general requirements that each city has in common.

These include:

• Minimum age and ID: Most cities require guards to be at least 18 and have a valid government-issued ID.
  
• Training: Each city may have its own requirements for security guard duties and training. In Denver, for example, new guards need to complete 16 hours of approved training before applying.
  
• Background checks: Most jurisdictions require fingerprinting and FBI background checks.
  
• Local security license: If your city uses a guard card system, you’ll need to apply and get that approved before your team can work legally.

4. Gather documents and register your business

Once you know your service area and city-specific rules, it’s time to start pulling your paperwork together.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Business registration: File your business with the Colorado Secretary of State.
  
• EIN: Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS website.
  
• Local permits: Apply for any licenses or operating permits required by your city or county.
  
• Insurance: Some cities require general liability coverage to process your application, especially if you’re working in high-risk areas or with armed guards.

Some jurisdictions process licenses in as little as five business days, but it can take up to four weeks, depending on where you apply. You can also experience some processing delays if you submit incomplete documents, so make sure you include everything necessary to avoid any back-and-forth!

5. Train your team and set internal procedures

Once your company is registered and licensed, it’s time to train your guards and set up the policies that keep things running smoothly. Here’s what you might want to consider:

• Training: All guards need to go through formal training that includes local law, patrol duties, de-escalation, and communication. Some cities (like Denver) mandate this before you can apply for a license.
  
  
• SOPs: Write clear procedures for incident reporting, post orders, emergency response, and shift check-ins. Check out some security guard safety tips to help you create well-rounded and safe SOPs.
  
  
• Employee handbook: Here, you can set expectations around scheduling, uniforms, code of conduct, and how to report issues.
  
  
• Certification tracking: Use a system (or security guard software like Belfry) to track when your guards’ licenses or guard cards need to be renewed.

6. Hire and onboard qualified guards

Whether you’re hiring one guard or a full team, it’s important to bring on people who are reliable, qualified, and ready to represent your brand. Here’s how to start:

• Background checks: This is required in most cities. Make sure you run checks before letting anyone step into a uniform — any bad apples can ruin your company’s reputation.
  
• Orientation: Go over your SOPs, client expectations, and legal obligations so your guards know what to expect.
  
• Ongoing training: Some cities require continuing education to renew licenses. You can build it into your onboarding from day one.
  
• Personnel files: Keep documentation for every guard, including certifications, licenses, and incident history.

Remember to hire only licensed guards. If your guards need help to get theirs, here’s how to get a security guard license in Colorado.

It’s also worth mentioning that there are no multi-state security licenses, so if your guards have licenses in different states, they will still need to get one in Colorado.

7. Market your business and get clients

With your business fully licensed and your team in place, it’s time to bring in the work.

Start simple:

• Website and Google Business Profile: Clients need to find you, and a clean online presence goes a long way.
  
• Networking: Reach out to local businesses, property managers, and event organizers. Offer to take on small gigs to build your reputation.
  
• Social proof: Once you’ve done a job or two, ask your happy clients for testimonials or reviews, then post those on your website or Google page.
  
• Local content: Share tips, FAQs, or updates about Colorado security to build local search traffic.

8. Grow your business (and stay compliant)

Once you’re up and running, your focus shifts to staying organized, legal, and competitive. Here’s how to do it:

• Watch for local updates: Since licensing is handled by individual cities, rules can change with little notice. Stay up to date so you can avoid any licensing compliance lapses.
  
  
• Track everything: Stay on top of renewal dates for licenses, insurance, and certifications. You can use Belfry to help you and get alerts for upcoming renewals.
  
  
• Expand wisely: Consider adding mobile patrol, risk assessments, or electronic monitoring as you grow. Try services that align with your experience and what your local market needs.
  
  
• Use software: Tools like Belfry can help manage scheduling, incident reports, and certifications all in one place.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a state license to start a security company in Colorado?

No. Colorado doesn’t issue a statewide license for security companies. Licensing is handled locally, so the process and requirements will depend on the city where you plan to operate.

How is security licensing handled in Colorado?

Each city or county sets its own rules. For example, Denver requires a separate security guard license that includes training, fingerprinting, and a background check.

What training is required for security guards in Colorado?

It depends on the city. In Denver, unarmed guards must complete 16 hours of training for a Colorado security guard license. Armed guards usually need additional firearms training and may be subject to stricter background checks.

How long does it take to get a guard card in Colorado?

In most cities, the process to get a guard card in Colorado takes about 1 to 4 weeks once your paperwork is submitted. Delays can happen if your background check takes longer or if anything in your application is missing or incomplete.

How Belfry can help you streamline your operations in Colorado

After learning how to start a security company in Colorado, the next challenge is keeping everything organized — especially as you grow. According to recent security industry statistics, demand for private security services is on the rise, and with that comes more moving parts to manage like scheduling, guard accountability, incident reports, certifications, and payroll.

That’s where Belfry can help.

Belfry helps you stay organized by putting everything in one place. Here’s how it helps you stay on top of your security operations: 

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
  ‍
• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
  ‍
• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
  ‍
• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
  ‍
• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
  ‍
• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

Ready to see how Belfry can help you streamline your Colorado operations? Schedule a free Belfry demo today.