The Bureau of Capitol Security was created by the legislature in 1977 as a branch of the Department of Public Safety. There currently is a staff of ten: The Bureau Director and Chief, a sergeant, four law enforcement officers, three night watchpersons, and one part-time administrative assistant. Prior to 1977, the functions of the Bureau were the responsibility of the Bureau of Public Improvements.

The Bureau of Capitol Security is a law enforcement agency responsible for the safety of the people and the security of the buildings within the Capitol Area. This area includes the State House and Capitol Park, other buildings and property owned or used by the State within the Capitol Area campus, and the buildings and property on the eastside of the river within the old Augusta Mental Health campus. The Bureau enforces parking regulations and responds to alarms and other calls for help or assistance on the two campuses. At night and on weekends, the Bureau's night watchpersons check the security of approximately 50 buildings and properties owned or used by the State in Augusta and Hallowell. The major objectives of the Bureau are the safety of members of the legislature, staff, employees and visitors; and the security of the State buildings and property for the complexes to which we provide service.

During the Fiscal year 2006, the officers and watchpersons within the Bureau found or responded to approximately 2,250 incidents. Seventy two of these incidents resulted in criminal reports being initiated. These range from thefts of property to assaults or criminal threatening. Thirty-nine cases were forwarded to the Augusta Police Department for follow up. Bureau police officers also investigated 22 motor vehicle accidents and issued 883 parking tickets. Officers of the Bureau kept the peace at several controversial public hearings and worked with the Augusta Police Department and the Maine State Police for order maintenance at several large gatherings in the Capitol Area.

The Bureau of Capitol Security issues Capitol Area Activity Permits. Fifty-two permits were issued during the Fiscal year 2006 for activities in Capitol Park and in the Capitol Area..