Event Security Requests

Gaston event security

Parameters for Security Request

Over the past year GUPD has re-engineered the way we examine security threats for campus events.  This is based on world, regional and local events.  We have instituted many more bag checks, no backpack events and increased security at our larger venues, including Gaston Hall.  Most large venues will have a GUPD presence with a bag check policy enforcement.

It is the department’s responsibility to assess security on campus, to assure a safe living and learning environment and to mitigate threats to the University.

The leadership of the University has an expectation that all special events are assessed and assured that proper security is in place.

Large venues, such as Gaston Hall, now have bag checks in place as well as interior security.  Events of sensitive nature, controversial speakers or topics will typically have a GUPD present.  Should there be a disruption of a protest nature, a designated Speech and Expression person will intervene and advise that person that they may not disrupt the event.  They may protest in silence as long as they are not obstructing or disturbing others. If said person(s) of the event continues to disrupt the event, GUPD will take lead from the designated Speech and Expression representative and remove said person(s) causing the disturbance.

Events in which alcohol is served, there’s amplified sound or cash intake, will typically have a GUPD presence as well. Please note that there may be other contributing factors which GUPD may deem it necessary to staff personnel for an event.  

The Georgetown University Police Department is not funded to provide security at special events, it is the event sponsors responsibility.


The current hourly rate per officer for Event Security Services is $63.75 per hour, per officer. Events requiring security that take place on recognized University Holidays will be subject to an hourly rate of $95.63 per hour, per officer. The Georgetown University Police reserves the right to determine staffing levels for all events. In general, GUPD will staff one officer per 75 event participants, however, this ratio may change depending on the type of event in order to provide a safe and secure environment for everyone involved. *Note that there is a four (4) hour minimum per officer for any scheduled event.

***Administrative fee: Event security requests must be submitted at least seven (7) days prior to the event date. Requests submitted less than seven (7) business days prior to the event date will be charged a $250 Administrative Fee.***

***Cancellation policy: for scheduled events that are canceled by the sponsor with less than 48 hours’ notice, every effort will be made to ensure full cancellation without charge. however, as our department is subject to contractual obligations, if such cancellation cannot fully be completed on our end, the sponsor understands and agrees (by virtue of completing event security request form) that they may still be subject to a full or partial charge for the event.***

To request a security detail for your next event, please complete and submit an Event Security Request form. One of our professional staff will be happy to help.

Feedback?

If you’ve recently requested security services from GUPD, tell us about your experience. Please take a brief survey and let us know how we did by completing the feedback form.