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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 4501:7-1 | Licenses

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 4501:7-1-01 | Definitions.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in Chapter 4501:7-1 of the Administrative Code can be found in paragraph (M) of this rule.]

(A) "Department" means the Ohio department of public safety.

(B) "Director" means the director of the Ohio department of public safety or designee.

(C) "Military" means any of the armed forces of the United States, a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, the Ohio national guard or the national guard of any other state, the Ohio military reserve, and the Ohio naval militia.

(D) "Identification card" or "I.D. card" means a card issued by the department to an employee of, or a qualifying agent of, a class A, class B, or class C licensee which contains the personal and employer information set forth in sections 4749.03 and 4749.06 of the Revised Code. An identification card shall, when applicable, contain one or more firearm bearer notations as specified in division (A)(3) of section 4749.10 of the Revised Code.

(E) "Investigator" has the same meaning as "private investigator," set forth in division (A) of section 4749.01 of the Revised Code.

(F) "Licensee" refers to a person or entity licensed under section 4749.03 of the Revised Code to provide private investigative services, security services, or both.

(G) "Provider" means any person who engages in the business of private investigation, the business of security services, or both, and has the same meaning as "licensee."

(H) "Qualifying Agent" is the owner, officer or a hired person of the company that fulfills the experience requirements as stated in Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code.

(I) "Veteran" means anyone who is serving or has served under honorable conditions in any component of the armed forces, including the national guard and reserve.

(J) "Working hours" means any hours in an active pay status.

(K) "Waiver" means form PSU 0060, supplied from a licensee to the person who receives, for hire, security guard or investigate services acknowledging that the employee(s) have not completed registration and agreeing to their employment.

(L) "Applicant for licensure" means an entity applying for licensure, as well as an owner, partner, or associate of the entity applying for licensure.

(M) Incorporated materials:

(1) "Employee Registration Application," form "PSU 0015," dated May 2020, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(2) "Employee Registration Renewal," form "PSU 0017," dated October 2015, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(3) "Firearm Bearer Notation Application," form "PSU 0016," dated May 2020, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(4) "Multiple Change Application," form "PSU 0011," dated April 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(5) "Provider Application," form "PSU 0006," dated May 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(6) "Provider Branch Office Application," form "PSU 0010," dated April 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(7) "Qualifying Agent Application," form "PSU 0007," dated May 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(8) "Qualifying Agent Renewal," form "PSU 0053," dated May 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov;

(9) "WebCheck Instructions," form "PSU 0019," dated December 2014, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov; and

(10) "Waiver," form "PSU 0060" dated March 2016, may be obtained at http://www.pisgs.ohio.gov.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.01, 4749.10, 4749.06, 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 8/10/1989, 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-02 | Reputation for integrity.
 

When determining whether an applicant for licensure has a good reputation for integrity pursuant to division (A)(1)(a) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code, the department of public safety may consider:

(A) If the applicant has been convicted of, or plead guilty to, a misdemeanor within one year of the date of application;

(B) If the applicant has been convicted of, or plead guilty to, a felony within three years of the date of application;

(C) If the applicant has ever operated a business of private investigation, business of security services, or both without being licensed under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code;

(D) If the applicant has ever operated a business of private investigation, business of security services or both without general liability insurance coverage while licensed under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code; or

(E) If the applicant has ever violated any provision of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code or the rules promulgated thereunder or any order of the department, or any laws or regulations of another state or jurisdiction in the regulation of private investigation or security services.

(F) If the applicant for licensure has defaulted on a settlement agreement, adjudication order, or cease and desist order with the department.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 8/10/1989
Rule 4501:7-1-03 | Requirement of new license.
 

(A) A new license is required where there is:

(1) A change in the class of a license; or

(2) Failure to renew a current license by the licensee by the first day of March each year.

(B) The department of public safety shall be notified in writing within ten days of any change in the controlling interest of a corporation, any change in officers of a corporation, any change of partners of a partnership, any increase or decrease in the number of partners of a partnership or any change in the legal name of the licensee.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 8/10/1989
Rule 4501:7-1-04 | License applications.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) As used in this chapter, "provider" and "licensee" have the same meaning as, and refer to, the holder of a class A, class B, or class C license issued in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code.

(B) Each applicant for a class A, class B, or class C license shall submit a "Provider Application" to the director of the department of public safety (department) accompanied by the license fee provided for in section 4749.03 of the Revised Code. A "Branch Office Application" shall be submitted for each additional business location accompanied by the branch license fee provided for in section 4749.05 of the Revised Code. The license fee may be paid by check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state, or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically.

(C) Each "Provider Application" must be accompanied by a "Qualifying Agent Application" and the qualifying agent (QA) examination fee provided for in division (A)(1)(e) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code. The examination fee may be paid by certified check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state, or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically. A passport style photograph taken within one year of submission, and bearing a reasonable likeness to the applicant must be submitted with the "Qualifying Agent Application."

(1) The fingerprint impressions submitted under division (C)(1) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code shall not have been obtained more than one year prior to the filing of the application for a license, as outlined on "WebCheck Instructions."

(2) If a qualifying agent intends to carry a firearm in the course of business or employment, the QA shall comply with the provision of section 4749.10 of the Revised Code and rule 4501:7-1-21 of the Administrative Code.

(3) If the results of the criminal records check described in division (C)(1) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code indicate that the applicant may have a criminal record in one or more jurisdictions or in one or more states other than Ohio, the director may make further inquiries and request further information from the applicant in order to complete the investigation of the applicant.

(D) The "Provider Application" and "Qualifying Agent Application" shall include a question that easily identifies the applicant for licensure and applicant for QA as a veteran or as the spouse of a veteran. Applicants currently serving in the military must provide a copy of their military identification card or that of their spouse, or a veteran must provide a copy of their DD214 or that of their spouse along with the application, which will allow the department to verify the identification of the applicant as a veteran or spouse of a veteran. Processing of applications for veterans or their spouses shall, to the extent possible, be expedited and prioritized.

(E) When all requirements for application are met, the application for a license shall be approved, and a wall license will be issued along with the approved QA registration card.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 11/16/2001, 10/7/2004
Rule 4501:7-1-05 | Insurance.
 

(A) All applicants for licensure shall submit evidence of comprehensive general liability insurance coverage, or equivalent guarantee approved by the director. Coverage shall be verified by the insurer and certified as to the minimum amounts specified in section 4749.03 of the Revised Code.

Each insurance acord (policy) must list the "Department of Public Safety Private Investigator Security Guard Services" (department) as the certificate holder, and contain a provision requiring the insurer to notify the department no later than ten days prior to the policy's cancellation and not later than seven days after its lapse.

(B) All license holders must maintain the comprehensive general liability insurance coverage verified by the insurer and certified as to the minimum coverage thereunder.

Last updated October 23, 2023 at 1:08 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: R.C. 4749.02
Amplifies: R.C. 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 10/7/2004
Rule 4501:7-1-06 | Required experience.
 

(A) Except as provided in paragraphs (B) and (C) of this rule, an applicant for a class B license shall have at least four thousand working hours of experience in investigatory work, an applicant for a class C license shall have at least four thousand working hours of experience in security services work, and an applicant for a class A license shall have at least four thousand working hours of experience consisting of at least one thousand working hours of experience in investigatory work and at least one thousand working hours of experience in security services work, and the remaining hours of working experience in either investigatory or security service work, or both. An applicant must have completed the hours required in this paragraph in the twenty-four month period immediately preceding the date an application for licensure is received by the department of public safety.

(B) Equivalent experience such as, but not limited to, specialized education in criminal justice or law enforcement, or honorable service in the military police or similar military security position in any of the branches of the armed forces of the United States, or significant experience as a law enforcement officer, as defined in division (A)(11) of section 2901.01 of the Revised Code, or as a peace officer as defined in division (B) of section 2935.01 of the Revised Code obtained within the last ten years prior to the date of application, may be deemed by the director of public safety to be sufficient to satisfy the experience requirement.

(C) If specialized education as defined in paragraph (B) of this rule is submitted as equivalent experience, an applicant for a class A license shall also have at least one thousand working hours of experience in investigatory work and at least one thousand working hours in security services work, an applicant for a class B license shall have at least two thousand working hours of experience in investigatory work, and an applicant for a class C license shall have at least two thousand working hours of experience in security services work.

(D) Equivalent experience such as, but not limited to, management in the business of private investigation, management in the business of security services, or both, may be deemed by the director of public safety to be sufficient to satisfy the experience requirement as defined in paragraph (A) of this rule.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 2/15/1998, 11/16/2001
Rule 4501:7-1-07 | Examinations.
 

(A) Under division (C)(3) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code, the qualifying agent will be notified by e-mail of available exam dates once licensing requirements are met. All exams are held at 1970 west Broad street, Columbus, OH 43223. If the qualifying agent fails to appear for an examination, except as provided herein, the application may be denied and a new application together with a new fee shall be required.

At the director's discretion, proctored qualifying agent exams can be provided if the applicant resides in a different state or is unable to sit for the exam in Columbus. If the qualifying agent has been approved for a proctored exam, the department will determine the exam location and the qualifying agent will be responsible for any additional fees.

(B) If the applicant's failure to appear for the scheduled examination is due to illness, the applicant shall be admitted to the next scheduled examination. No applicant shall be excused from taking the scheduled examination for any other reason than illness, unless in the department's judgment, the applicant would suffer undue hardship thereby. Examination fees are non-refundable.

(C) Upon appearing for the examination, the identity of the applicant shall be verified by producing for inspection a driver's license or other photographic identification acceptable to the department of public safety (department).

(D) The examination devised by the department shall test the applicant on knowledge of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code, the rules promulgated thereunder, and other aspects of the private investigation and/or security services business.

(E) An applicant will be given up to ninety days and no more than three attempts following the notification of eligibility to pass the examination or the application shall be denied and a new application together with a new fee shall be required.

(F) The department may waive examination and experience verification requirements for a new licensee, partner in a partnership, or a qualifying agent if the applicant previously qualified a business for licensure within six months of the date of application.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 10/7/2004, 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-08 | License.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) The license required to be obtained by each licensee under the provisions of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code shall at all times be posted in a conspicuous place in the principal place of business of the licensee.

(1) Licensees shall, within ten days, notify the department of public safety (department) in writing using the "Multiple Change Application" or update online, of any change of address of such principal place of business, or of any change of the business name or trade name designation under which the business is conducted or contact information. A licensee shall not have a name so similar to that of another licensee as to be confusing or likely to mislead the public. A business name or trade name designation can be used by no more than one licensee, except that licensees operating under valid franchise agreements with a lawfully registered franchisor may operate under the same name.

(2) In the event that a business of a licensee is discontinued for any reason, the licensee shall notify the department in writing and immediately return the license and the qualifying agent(s) identification card(s).

(B) Each licensee who maintains one or more branch offices shall obtain a branch office license pursuant to the provisions of division (A) of section 4749.05 of the Revised Code for each of such branch offices by submitting a "Provider Branch Office Application" accompanied by the fee provided for in section 4749.05 of the Revised Code. The fee may be paid by certified check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state, or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically.

(1) Licensees shall, within 48 hours, notify the department in writing using the "Multiple Change Application" or update online of any change of address at such branch office.

(2) In the event of suspension, revocation or nonrenewal of the license under which the licensee is authorized to conduct the business of private investigation or security services, or if such business is discontinued for any other reason, the licensee shall immediately return all branch office licenses to the department.

(C) All licenses shall expire annually on the first day of March following the date of issuance under the provisions of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code.

(1) On the second day of January of each year, the department will notify the licensee by e-mail that the license will expire on March first, and must be renewed after January second and by midnight of March first if the company wants to remain in business.

(2) Each class A, class B, or class C licensee shall submit a "Provider and Qualifying Agent License Renewal" accompained by the renewal fee provided for in section 4749.03 of the Revised Code or may renew on-line at http://pisgs.ohio.gov/pisgs.stm. The fee may be paid by certified check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state, or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically. A passport style photograph , taken within one year of submission, and bearing a reasonable likeness to the qualifying agent (QA) must be submitted with the "Provider and Qualifying Agent Renewal." The QA must continue to meet the qualifications set forth in section 4749.03 of the Revised Code.

(D) Pursuant to sections 4749.03 and 5903.10 of the Revised Code, the holder of an expired license, who was a member of the uniformed services, or the spouse of a member of the uniformed services, shall be granted a renewal of the license at the usual cost and without penalty if either of the following applies:

(1) The license was not renewed because the holder was in active service in the armed forces of the United States or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio national guard or the national guard of any other state.

(2) The license was not renewed because the holder's spouse was in active service in the armed forces of the United States or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio national guard or the national guard of any other state, and the service resulted in the holder's absence from this state.

A renewal shall not be granted unless the holder or the spouse of the holder, whichever is applicable, has presented satisfactory evidence of the service member's discharge under honorable conditions or release under honorable conditions from active duty or national guard duty within six months after the release or discharge.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03, 4749.05
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 8/10/1989
Rule 4501:7-1-09 | Registration of employees.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) Each licensee shall register their investigator and security guard employees with the department of public safety (department).

(B) Each licensee shall submit an "Employee Registration Application" to register a new investigator or security guard employee with the department accompanied by the registration fee provided for in section 4749.06 of the Revised Code. The registration fee may be paid by check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state, or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically. A passport style photograph , taken within one year of submission, and bearing a reasonable likeness to the applicant must be submitted with the "Employee Registration Application." The completed application including submitted fingerprints for a BCI background check, must be submitted no later than seven calendar days after the employee's date of hire.

(1) The licensee must submit verification of the employee's name, date of birth, registrant's e-mail address and social security number.

(2) The fingerprint impressions submitted under division (B)(2) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code shall not have been obtained more than one year prior to the filing of the employee's application for registration, as outlined on "WebCheck Instructions."

(a) If an employee intends to carry a firearm in the course of business or employment, the employee shall comply with the provisions of section 4749.10 of the Revised Code and rule 4301:7-1-21 of the Administrative Code.

(b) If the results of the criminal records check described in division (B)(2)(a) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code indicate that the employee applying for registration may have a criminal record in one or more jurisdictions or in one or more states other than Ohio, the director may make further inquiries and request further information from the applicant in order to complete the investigation of the applicant.

(C) "Employee Registration Application" shall include a question that easily identifies the employee as a veteran or as the spouse of a veteran. Applicants currently serving in the military must provide a copy of their military identification card or that of their spouse, or a veteran must provide a copy of their DD214 or that of their spouse along with the application, which will allow the department to verify the identification of the applicant as a veteran or spouse of a veteran. Once military service is verified on their application, and all other requirements are met, applicants for registration who are currently serving in the military, veterans, or their spouses, will be segregated and processed ahead of non-military affiliated applications.

(D) Within ten calendar days after the termination or expiration of a registered investigator or security guard's employment, the licensee shall submit to the department an "Employee Termination Report" with the employee's identification card for cancellation.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.06
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1970
Rule 4501:7-1-10 | Issuance of I.D. card to registrant.
 

(A) It shall be the duty of every licensee licensed under the provisions of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code to furnish each of their investigator and security guard employees with an identification card furnished by the department of public safety (department), and maintain a record thereof.

(B) The licensee shall inform all of their investigator and security guard employees on the first day of employment of all the registration and firearms training provisions of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code as that chapter applies to such employees and shall ensure that all such employees are properly registered in accordance with sections 4749.06 and 4749.10 of the Revised Code.

(C) Each licensee that uses investigator or security guard employees who have not yet received the identification cards issued by the department, shall obtain a written waiver from each client pursuant to division (C) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code. Under no circumstances shall an employee carry firearms while engaged in the licensee's business unless the licensee has received a firearm bearer notation on the employee's identification card.

(D) Each employee shall produce their identification card upon the request of an authorized representative of the department or any law enforcement authority.

(E) All identification cards shall be considered, and remain, the property of the department. The licensee shall be responsible for the use of the identification card by their employee, and shall return the card to the department upon the termination of the employee.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.06, 4749.10
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 10/7/2004
Rule 4501:7-1-11 | Records.
 

Each licensee shall keep a true and correct record in the English language of all of the business transactions for the current calendar year plus the two previous calendar years in the licensee's office relevant to enforcement of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code.

(A) Records that shall be available for inspection and provided to the department of public safety upon request include:

(1) Hire dates for all security guards and private investigators.

(2) A record of the days worked by each security guard and private investigator by date.

(3) A record of dates when each security guard or private investigator worked while armed.

(4) Termination dates of each security guard or private investigator no longer working for the licensee.

(5) Proof of current commission for any unregistered peace officers.

(6) Waivers for any security guards or private investigators working while pending application approval.

(7) Payroll records indicating the dates and hours worked by each security guard and private investigator per pay period.

(8) A record of any independent contractors providing security or private investigatory services.

(9) Payment records to independent contractors and invoices submitted by independent contractors.

(B) No person shall falsify, alter, or in any manner tamper with any records required to be kept by this rule.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 4749.11
Amplifies: 4749.11
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-12 | Uniforms, vehicles, and publications.
 

(A) For the purposes of this rule, the following are defined as "words or phrases that can be construed as law enforcement or governmental agency":

(1) Homeland security;

(2) Highway patrol;

(3) Bureau of Investigation;

(4) Police;

(5) Private police;

(6) Sheriff;

(7) The word "patrol" used in conjunction with "Ohio" or "State";

(8) SWAT;

(9) Cop;

(10) Public safety;

(11) Peace officer;

(12) Constable;

(13) Law enforcement;

(14) Trooper;

(15) Deputy; or

(16) Agent.

(B) No uniform, vehicle or publication used by a licensee shall be marked with any words or phrases that can be construed as a law enforcement or governmental agency.

(C) Uniforms.

(1) Registered employees of licensees are not required to wear uniforms. Any uniforms worn by such employees shall have distinct identifying patches displaying the licensee's business name to ensure they are readily distinguishable from the uniforms worn by law enforcement authorities at all times; initials may be used with prior written approval of the department of public safety. Where blazer-type jackets are used, the identifying patch may be worn on the breast pocket and/or shoulder area.

(2) Registered employees of licensees are not required to wear badges. If a badge is worn, it must be furnished by the licensee and include the licensee's business name.

(3) Employees of one licensee shall not wear the uniform of another licensee unless a contract or subcontract relationship exists between the two licensees.

(4) When under the employ of a licensee, commissioned peace officer, as defined in section 2935.01 of the Revised Code, may wear the following attire:

(a) The standard uniform adopted by the licensee;

(b) When working in the jurisdiction where commissioned as a peace officer, the uniform of that jurisdiction with the written consent of the chief law enforcement officer of the jurisdiction where the individual is commissioned; or

(c) When working outside the jurisdiction where commissioned as a peace officer, the uniform of the jurisdiction where the registrant is commissioned as a peace officer with both the written consent of the chief law enforcement officer of the jurisdiction where the individual is commissioned and the written consent of the chief law enforcement officer of the jurisdiction where the individual will be working.

(D) Publications and advertisements.

(1) All advertisements and/or promotional material shall carry the legal name or trade name designation and the address under which the licensee is licensed. The use of abbreviated names or division names for advertising purposes must be approved in writing by the department.

(2) A licensee shall not use the name of any employee or associate in the heading of any advertisement or other promotional material. If a name of an employee or associate is used in advertising or other materials, the name shall be in smaller font than the licensee's business name.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 4749.08
Amplifies: 4749.08
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 4/24/2000, 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-15 | Notice of renewals.
 

(A) The department of public safety (department) shall provide notice to each individual or company holding a license issued pursuant to Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code of the expiration of the registrations of its employees. The notices shall be in writing and shall be provided at a minimum of sixty days prior to the expiration of the registrations.

(B) It is the responsibility of each licensee and individual holding a registration identification card to renew licenses or registrations in accordance with Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code and rule 4501:7-1-16 of the Administrative Code even if the licensee or individual holding a registration identification card fails to receive a renewal notice from the private investigator security guard section due to outdated email or contact information, a change of address, incorrect address, loss of mail by the United States postal service, or any other reason. Failure to receive or obtain a license renewal application shall not relieve the licensee or individual holding a registration identification card from compliance with the requirements of Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code and rule 4501:7-1-16 of the Administrative Code.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 4749.06
Amplifies: 4749.06
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-16 | Renewal of registrations.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) Each registration identification card issued to a private investigator or security guard employee pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code and rule 4501:7-1-10 of the Administrative Code shall include the date of issuance. Registrations expire annually on the anniversary date of initial issuance.

(B) The department of public safety shall renew a registration issued pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code if the person holding a valid identification card renews such registration in accordance with this rule on form "Employee Registration Renewal" or renews on-line at http://pisgs.ohio.gov/pisgs.stm. A passport style photograph, taken within one year of submission, and bearing a reasonable likeness to the applicant must be submitted with the "Employee Registration Renewal." The person holding a valid identification card must continue to meet the qualifications set forth in section 4749.06 of the Revised Code and continue to meet the following renewal requirements:

(1) Certifies that he/she has not been convicted of, or pled guilty to, a disqualifying offense as defined in rule 4501:7-1-19 of the Administrative Code during the previous registration year;

(2) Pays the annual renewal fee as set forth in rule 4501:7-1-17 of the Administrative Code. The fee may be paid by certified check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state or if submitted on-line, may be paid electronically.

If an individual fails to meet the renewal requirements, the registration is expired without the taking of any action by the department. Registrants desiring to register again will be required to make new application to the department in accordance with section 4749.06 of the Revised Code.

(3) The holder of an expired registration issued pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code, who was a member of the uniformed services, or the spouse of a member of the uniformed services, shall be granted a renewal of the registration at the usual cost and without penalty if either of the following applies:

(a) The registration was not renewed because of the holder's active service in the armed forces of the United States or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio national guard or the national guard of any other state.

(b) The registration was not renewed because the holder's spouse served in active service in the armed forces of the United States or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio national guard or the national guard of any other state, and the service resulted in the holder's absence from this state.

Pursuant to division (B) of section 5903.10 of the Revised Code, a renewal shall not be granted under paragraph (B)(3)(a) or (B)(3)(b) of this rule unless the holder or the spouse of the holder, whichever is applicable, has presented satisfactory evidence of the service member's discharge under honorable conditions or release under honorable conditions from active duty or national guard duty within six months after the release or discharge.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 4749.06
Amplifies: 4749.06
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 9/22/2005
Rule 4501:7-1-17 | Fees.
 

(A) The fees for applications for examination, issuance of licenses or registration cards, replacement or duplicate licenses or registration cards, transfer of licenses, and annual renewal of licenses and registrations are as follows:

(1) Twenty-five dollars for application for examination for an individual applicant and, in the case of a corporation, each officer or qualifying agent specified in the application as satisfying the requirements of divisions (A)(1) to (F)(1) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code pursuant to division (B)(3) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code;

(2) Five dollars for each application to license or renew a company pursuant to section 4749.03 of the Revised Code for the fee charged by the bureau of criminal identification to enroll the applicant in the retained applicant fingerprint database pursuant to rules adopted under division (F) of section 109.5721 of the Revised Code;

(3) Three hundred seventy-five dollars for the issuance of each license pursuant to division (B)(3) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code;

(4) One hundred dollars for the issuance of each branch license pursuant to division (A) of section 4749.05 of the Revised Code;

(5) Two hundred seventy-five dollars for the annual renewal of each license pursuant to division (D) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code;

(6) Twenty-five dollars for a duplicate of a lost, stolen, or destroyed license pursuant to division (E) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code;

(7) Forty dollars for the issuance of each registration identification card pursuant to division (B) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code;

(8) Twenty-five dollars for the annual renewal of each registration identification card pursuant to division (F) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code;

(9) Fifteen dollars for the issuance of firearm bearer notation on the qualifying agent and employee registration identification card pursuant to division (A) of section 4749.10 of the Revised Code;

(10) Twenty-five dollars to transfer a private investigator or security guard provider license from one corporation to another corporation or from a sole proprietor to a corporation or to transfer a corporation license to a sole proprietor, pursuant to division (F) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code;

(11) Five dollars for a duplicate of a lost, stolen, or destroyed registration identification card pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code.

(B) Each fee described in paragraph (A) of this rule is a nonrefundable fee payable to the department of public safety except that the three hundred seventy-five dollar initial license fee described in paragraph (A)(3) of this rule shall be refunded if the license application is denied.

Last updated April 8, 2021 at 12:19 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03, 4749.031, 4749.06, 4749.10
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/2012
Rule 4501:7-1-18 | Retained applicant fingerprint database enrollment.
 

(A) Each individual, including a partner in a partnership, an officer, or a qualifying agent who submits an application to license a company or who submits an application to renew a license pursuant to section 4749.03 of the Revised Code, shall be enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database maintained by the bureau of criminal identification and investigation under section 109.5721 of the Revised Code.

(1) Each individual, including a partner in a partnership, an officer, or a qualifying agent who submits an annual renewal application pursuant to section 4749.03 of the Revised Code, and who does not currently have electronic fingerprints on file with the superintendent of the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, shall submit a set of electronic fingerprints directly to the superintendent in the method prescribed in division (C)(2) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code.

(2) The results of the criminal records check shall be sent via direct copy to the director of public safety, private investigator security guard services.

(3) If the results of the criminal records check satisfy the requirements of division (A)(1)(a) of section 4749.03 of the Revised Code, and the license is approved or renewed, the applicant shall be enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database. Once enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database, the licensee need not submit fingerprints on future renewal dates unless otherwise required under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code.

(4) If the results of the applicant's criminal records check indicate that the applicant does not have electronic fingerprints on file with the superintendent of the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, then the applicant shall be granted a sixty day extension from the date that the department of public safety notifies the applicant of the records check results. Within this sixty day extension period, the applicant must submit a set of electronic fingerprints to the superintendent in the method prescribed in division (C)(2) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code and the director of public safety must receive results that satisfy the requirements of division (B)(3) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code.

(5) Failure to provide a fingerprint submission in accordance with this paragraph shall result in a denial of the individual's application for license or application for renewal.

(6) If an individual, including a partner in a partnership, an officer, or a qualifying agent, submits fingerprints that, due to the lack in clarity of the submitted fingerprints, cannot be used to enroll in the retained applicant fingerprint database, the individual shall submit fingerprints at time of the next year's renewal.

(B) Each employee who is registered or renewed by a class A, B, or C licensee pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code shall be enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database maintained by the bureau of criminal identification and investigation under section 109.5721 of the Revised Code.

(1) Each employee who is registered by a class A, B, or C licensee pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code shall be automatically enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database.

(2) For each employee who is renewed by a class A, B, or C licensee pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code, and who does not currently have electronic fingerprints on file with the superintendent of the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, the licensee shall submit a set of electronic fingerprints directly to the superintendent in the method prescribed in division (C)(2) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code.

(3) The results of the employee's criminal records check shall be sent via direct copy to the director of public safety, private investigator security guard services.

(4) If the results of the employee's criminal records check satisfy the requirements of division (B)(3) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code, and the registration is approved or renewed, the employee shall be enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database. Once an employee is enrolled in the retained applicant fingerprint database, the employee need not submit fingerprints on future renewal dates unless otherwise required under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code.

(5) If the results of the employee's criminal records check indicate that the employee does not have electronic fingerprints on file with the superintendent of the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, then the licensee shall be granted a sixty day extension from the date that the department of public safety notifies the licensee of the records check results. Within this sixty day extension period, the licensee must submit a set of the employee's electronic fingerprints to the superintendent in the method prescribed in division (C)(2) of section 109.572 of the Revised Code and the director of public safety must receive results that satisfy the requirements of division (B)(3) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code.

(6) Failure to provide an employee's fingerprint submission in accordance with this paragraph shall result in a denial of the employee's registration or renewal.

(7) If an employee who is registered or renewed by a class A, B, or C licensee pursuant to section 4749.06 of the Revised Code submits fingerprints that, due to the lack in clarity of the submitted fingerprints, cannot be used to enroll in the retained applicant fingerprint database, the employee shall submit fingerprints at time of the next year's renewal.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.03, 4749.031, 4749.06
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Rule 4501:7-1-19 | Disqualifying offenses.
 

(A) "Disqualifying offense" means a conviction or plea of guilty to a felony offense that has a direct bearing on an individual's fitness or ability to perform the duties or responsibilities related to the provision of private investigator services, security guard services, or both.

(B) For purposes of sections 4749.03 and 4749.04 of the Revised Code, the following offenses are disqualifying offenses:

(1) Aggravated burglary as set forth in section 2911.11 of the Revised Code;

(2) Breaking and entering as set forth in section 2911.13 of the Revised Code;

(3) Burglary as set forth in section 2911.12 of the Revised Code;

(4) Deception to secure writing as set forth in section 2913.43 of the Revised Code;

(5) Endangering children as set forth in section 2919.22 of the Revised Code;

(6) Forgery as set forth in section 2913.31 of the Revised Code;

(7) Identity fraud as set forth in section 2913.49 of the Revised Code;

(8) Misuse of a credit card as set forth in section 2913.21 of the Revised Code;

(9) Unauthorized use of property - computer, cable, or telecoummunication property as set forth in section 2913.04 of the Revised Code;

(10) Passing bad checks as set forth in section 2913.11 of the Revised Code;

(11) Receiving stolen property as set forth in section 2913.51 of the Revised Code;

(12) Safecracking as set forth in section 2911.31 of the Revised Code;

(13) Theft as set forth in section 2913.02 of the Revised Code;

(14) Voyeurism as set forth in section 2907.08 of the Revised Code;

(15) Wiretapping as set forth in section 2933.52 of the Revised Code;

(16) Menacing by stalking as set forth in section 2903.211 of the Revised Code;

(17) Menacing as set forth in section 2903.22 of the Revised Code;

(18) Telecommunications harassment as set forth in section 2917.21 of the Revised Code;

(19) Inducing panic as set forth in section 2917.31 of the Revised Code;

(20) Making false alarms as set forth in section 2917.32 of the Revised Code;

(21) Criminal mischief as set forth in section 2909.07 of the Revised Code;

(22) An attempt or conspiracy to commit or complicity in committing any of the offenses listed in paragraphs (B)(1) to (B)(21) of this rule, if the attempt, conspiracy, or complicity is a felony;

(23) A violation of any former law of this state, any existing or former law of another state, existing or former law applicable in a military court or an Indian tribal court, or any existing or former law of any nation other than the United States that is or was substantially equivalent to any of the offenses listed in paragraphs (B)(1) to (B)(21) of this rule.

(C) For purposes of division (B)(3) of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code, "disqualifying offense" means a felony conviction or plea of guilty to any of the offenses listed in paragraphs (B)(1) to (B)(23) of this rule and a conviction or plea of guilty to a crime of moral turpitude, as that term is defined in section 4776.10 of the Revised Code.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 5502.011
Amplifies: 4749.03, 4749.06
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-20 | Notice of meeting.
 

(A) For the purpose of this rule "the commission" means the Ohio private investigation and security services commission (OPISSC).

(B) The department of public safety (department) shall post notice of all regularly scheduled meetings of the commission and any of its committees, subcommittees, and workgroups, on the department's website, which may be accessed at http://pisgs.ohio.gov/pissc.stm at least fourteen days prior to each regularly scheduled meeting. Such notice shall include the time and place of the meeting and may include the tentative agenda for the meeting. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting any member of the commission from requesting that an item be added to the agenda in writing once it is posted to the website.

(C) Any person or media outlet may obtain advance notice of any meeting of the commission, its committees, subcommittees and workgroups by requesting to be placed on an email notification list as no cost, or to receive notice by regular mail for a reasonable fee. Requests for notice of meetings may be submitted to the department in written form, or may be made in person during regular business hours. Written request for notice of meetings may be general in nature or may be specific to meetings where a particular type of business will be considered. Written requests may be mailed to "Private Investigator Security Guard Services, 1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223," and shall include the name of the person submitting the request, any organization with which the person is affiliated, mailing address, electronic mail address, telephone number, and whether notice is sought for all or specified types of meetings.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 121.22
Amplifies: 4749.021
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2015
Rule 4501:7-1-21 | Process for veteran applications.
 

Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective dates of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.

(A) The department shall track and monitor "Provider Applications," "Qualifying Agent Applications," "Employee Registration Applications," "Provider License Renewals," "Qualifying Agent Renewals," and "Employee Registration Renewals," that have been received from veterans, as defined in paragraph (I) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code, and/or spouses of veterans.

(B) The department shall prioritize and expedite a completed "Provider Application," "Qualifying Agent Application," "Employee Registration Application," "Provider License Renewal," "Qualifying Agent Renewal," and "Employee Registration Renewal," for veterans and spouses of veterans within four business days of receipt. An application shall be considered complete only when all requirements as set forth in rules 4501:7-1-04, 4501:7-1-08, 4501:7-1-09, and 4501:7-1-16 of the Administrative Code, as applicable, are met and the documentation as required in paragraph (C) of this rule has been provided to the department.

(C) Satisfactory evidence that the applicant or applicant's spouse is a veteran or member of the armed forces includes the applicant's official military identification card, official DD-214 separation document, or other official military documentation approved by the director of the department. A marriage certificate may be required, in addition to evidence of status as a veteran, if the applicant is the spouse of a veteran.

(D) In order to expedite the processing of applications and renewals, especially for individuals facing imminent deployment, the department shall accept necessary information in support of the applications by electronic and other appropriate means.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02, 5903.04
Amplifies: 4749.02, 5903.04
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Rule 4501:7-1-22 | Firearm bearer notation issuance and renewal.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) Any person who wishes to carry a firearm in the course of engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both shall:

(1) Submit either a paper or an electronic "Firearm Bearer Notation Application" accompanied by the fee provided for in section 4749.10 of the Revised Code. The fee may be paid electronically, or if a paper application is submitted, may be paid by check or money order payable to Ohio treasurer of state.

(2) Submit:

(a) A certificate of satisfactory completion of a basic firearm training program from the "Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission" (OPOTC) which includes at least twenty hours in handgun training at a commission approved training school;

(b) An equivalency letter from OPOTC if the person successfully completed a firearm training program approved by OPOTC as being equivalent to the twenty hour basic firearm training from 1982 to 1985; or

(c) A certificate or other evidence of satisfactory completion of a firearms training course at a certified OPOTC training school or law enforcement academy, if the applicant is a current or former peace officer, Ohio state highway patrol officer, or federal officer.

(3) If the certificate described in paragraph (A)(2)(a) of this rule was obtained more than eighteen months prior to the date of application, submit a certificate of satisfactory requalification in firearms use on a firearms training range at a firearms requalification program certified by the OPOTC or on a firearms training range under the supervision of an instructor certified by the OPOTC within the twelve months immediately preceding the date of submitting the "Firearm Bearer Notation Application."

(4) If the applicant intends to carry a firearm other than a handgun, the applicant shall submit a certificate of satisfactory completion of a minimum of five hours of training in the use of the other type of firearm from an OPOTC approved training program. Such certificate much be submitted for each type of firearm the applicant intends to carry.

(5) For the purpose of a state and federal bureau of investigation background check, submit directly to the bureau of criminal identification and investigation, with direct copy to the department, a complete set of fingerprints along with notification that the applicant intends to carry a firearm in the course of business.

(B) If upon review of the application materials submitted under this rule and the applicant's criminal background check, the director determines that the applicant meets the requirements set forth in section 4749.10 of the Revised Code, this rule, and is not subject to any state or federal firearms disabilities as set forth in section 2923.13 of the Revised Code and 18 USC 922(g), the director shall issue the applicant an employee registration card with a firearm bearer notation. The employee registration card with firearm bearer notion shall indicate the types of firearms the firearm bearer notation holder is authorized to carry in the course of his or her duties, the date of expiration of the firearm bearer notation, and the date of expiration of the employee registration card.

(C) The firearm bearer notation and the employee registration card may have different expiration dates. A firearm bearer notation is valid only until the date of expiration listed on the firearm bearer notation, even if the employee registration card has a later expiration date.

(1) The initial firearm bearer notation is valid for eighteen months from the date of qualification listed on certificate submitted under paragraph (B) of this rule and subsequent renewals of the firearm bearer notation expire twelve months from the date of requalification listed on the certificate of satisfactory requalification.

(2) A firearm bearer notation may be renewed by submitting a "Firearm Bearer Notation Application" accompanied by the fee provided for in section 4749.10 of the Revised Code, and submitting a certificate of satisfactory requalification for each type of firearm the person intends to carry. The requalification training must occur within twelve months immediately preceding the date of renewal submission.

(3) If a firearm bearer renewal application is not received by the department on or before the firearm bearer notation expiration date, the firearm bearer notation is expired and will not be renewed. An application for a new firearm bearer notation shall be submitted in accordance with paragraph (A) of this rule. If the employee registration card is unexpired, the employee may continue to provide unarmed private investigative, security services, or both.

(4) Regardless of the firearm bearer notation expiration date, if the employee registration card expires or if the department revokes, suspends, or refuses to renew the employee registration card, the firearm bearer notation shall automatically be expired, revoked, suspended, or not renewed.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.10
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Rule 4501:7-1-23 | Firearm bearer prohibitions and disciplinary actions.
 

[Comment: Information regarding the availability and effective date of the materials incorporated by reference in this rule can be found in paragraph (M) of rule 4501:7-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

(A) A firearm bearer notation issued in accordance with section 4749.10 of the Revised Code and rule 4501:7-1-22 of the Administrative Code does not authorize an individual to carry a concealed handgun or other dangerous ordnance or exempt any person from the provisions of Chapter 2923. of the Revised Code. Any person who intends to carry a concealed handgun in the course of his or her duties as a private investigator, security guard, or both must also have a concealed handgun license issued in accordance with section 2923.125 of Revised Code or fall within one of the exemptions listed in division (C) of section 2923.12 of the Revised Code.

(B) No licensee shall allow an employee or independent contractor to carry a firearm:

(1) While engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both, unless that person is carrying a valid employee registration card with a valid firearm bearer notation issued in accordance with this rule and section 4749.10 of the Revised Code;

(2) While engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both while the person's employee registration application or firearm bearer notation application is in an applied or pending status with the department; or

(3) Other than the types of firearms indicated on the firearm bearer notation while engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both.

(C) No person who is required to be licensed or registered under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code shall carry a firearm while engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both, unless the individual is carrying on their person, a valid employee registration card with a valid firearm bearer notation issued in accordance with this rule and section 4749.10 of the Revised Code.

(D) No person who is required to be licensed or registered under Chapter 4749. of the Revised Code shall carry firearm while engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both while the person's employee registration application or firearm bearer notation application is in applied or pending status with the department.

(E) No person with a valid firearm bearer notation shall carry a firearm other than the types of firearms indicated on the firearm bearer notion while engaging in the business of private investigation, security services, or both.

(F) The prohibitions listed in paragraphs (B), (C), (D), and (E) of this rule do not apply to unregistered commissioned peace officers who are exempt from the registration requirements of section 4749.06 of the Revised Code.

(G) Every licensee shall maintain records for the current calendar year plus the two previous calendar years of employees that carry firearms in the course of their duties. Such records shall include the dates in which that employee worked an armed account, but need not include any identifying information regarding the client for whom armed security is provided. Such records shall be made available upon request to the department as part of an audit or inspection.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 4749.02
Amplifies: 4749.10
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2018