Many security guards like to go to uniform stores or the internet and buy equipment they feel would be useful in their work as a security guard. One of the most common items bought is a badge.
Badges come in all shapes and types and some even look like official police badges except they might contain the words “Security Guard”, “Security Patrol” or something similar. It’s these badges that closely resemble official police badges that are barred from use in New York State.
Title 19 of the of New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR) Section 170.10 Insignia/symbols of authority, states the following:
(a) No licensed private investigator or licensed watch, guard or patrol agency shall use any badge, patch or insignia except as described herein:
  • (1) Any cloth or metal insignia authorized for use shall be no larger than 3” wide by 4” high and rectangular in shape.
  • (2) The insignia used by security guards shall not be similar in design or appearance to the insignia of any police force or governmental agency. Such insignia shall not contain a replica of the Great Seal of the State of New York or the coat of arms of New York State. It shall show the full licensed name of the employer in a prominent and legible manner.
  • (3) Each insignia shall contain the words watch guard, guard, patrol, special service protection, security or armed security. The cloth patch or metal insignia shall be worn either on the shoulder or breast of the guard uniform or a hat.
(b) The exhibition, wear, or display of any insignia of authority including any badge, emblem, identification card, vehicle emblem or any advertisement which could deceive a reasonable person into believing that such item is authorized by a law enforcement agency or the bearer is a law enforcement officer is prohibited.
Before you go out and buy yourself a badge or start wearing one you already bought, make sure it fits within the legal description of what a security guard in New York State can wear.