Hotel Security & Liability in California: What Hoteliers Must Know Before the Holiday Rush

As San Diego hotels prepare for the busy holiday and convention season, guest safety isn’t just a service issue — it’s a legal one. When thefts, assaults, or trafficking incidents occur on property, hotels can face reputational damage and potential liability.

California’s evolving laws and heightened guest expectations mean hotels must demonstrate reasonable, documented efforts to protect people and property. Here’s what every operator should know before year-end.

1. Duty of Care: When Hotels Can Be Held Liable

California law requires hotels to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm to guests. If a property ignores known risks — like poor lighting, nonfunctioning cameras, or weak access control — it may face claims of negligent security.

Courts often look at whether management knew (or should have known) about prior incidents and whether security measures were adequate for the circumstances. Maintaining lighting, visible patrols, and working surveillance helps demonstrate due diligence.

Reference: Advocate Magazine — Premises Liability

2. Human Trafficking Compliance: California’s SB 970

Hotels must meet SB 970, which requires at least 20 minutes of interactive human trafficking awareness training for guest-facing employees. New hires must be trained within six months, with refreshers every two years.

This law reflects California’s strong anti-trafficking stance — and failure to comply can lead to penalties or lawsuits. Hotels that integrate training, clear reporting procedures, and partner with programs like AHLA’s No Room for Trafficking initiative strengthen both compliance and culture.

Reference: Fisher Phillips — SB 970 Compliance Guide

3. Event & High-Season Risk: Plan, Don’t React

Large events, conventions, and peak travel weeks increase risk. Crowds, valuables, and alcohol heighten chances of theft or incidents. Hotels that treat security as part of event planning—rather than an afterthought—reduce those risks.

Before major events, review patrol coverage, update camera angles, confirm lighting, and coordinate with local law enforcement. A visible, professional presence not only deters crime but reassures guests.

Reference: San Diego Tourism Authority — Event Safety Resources

4. Best Practices Checklist for 2025

Area Action Step

Licensed Guards Use only BSIS-licensed, trained, and insured professionals.

Lighting & Access Maintain bright, functional lighting and controlled entry points.

Surveillance Ensure full camera coverage and real-time monitoring.

Documentation Keep detailed patrol logs and incident reports.

Training & Compliance Complete SB 970 trafficking awareness and refresh every two years.

5. Partnering With a Professional Security Team

At Excell Security, we help San Diego hotels stay compliant and secure with:

• Licensed guard services for lobbies, parking, and events

• Security audits and risk assessments

• GPS-verified patrol logs and digital reporting

Our goal: helping hotels safeguard their guests, their staff, and their reputation with confidence.

📞 Schedule a hotel security review before the holidays — call 619-579-0442 or visit ExcellSecurity.com.