About
Protective Services at Port Freeport
Mission of Protective Services
Port Freeport Protective Services is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our maritime community. Utilizing modern security strategies and multiple layers of protection, the team safeguards individuals, cargo, and facilities against potential threats.
Our mission: To proactively prevent, identify, and address risks while ensuring the continuous flow of global commerce.
Areas of focus include:
- Vessel and facility security
- Homeland and maritime security
- Community and personnel safety
- Environmental protection
- Cybersecurity
Emergency Reporting
- Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.
- Call Port Security at 979.233.5900 to facilitate emergency vehicle access.
Protective Services in Action
Our Protective Services team delivers comprehensive port-wide security:
- Managing homeland security, intelligence, and emergency response
- Safeguarding restricted and remote facilities
- Providing waterside protection for docks, harbor entrances, and high-value vessels
- Strengthening port-wide maritime risk management
Accessing the Port
Access to restricted areas is limited to individuals with a legitimate business need.
Requirements include:
- Port Freeport Access Badge – Required if visiting more than 4 times in 30 days. Available at the Emergency Operations Center (801 Navigation Blvd, Freeport, TX).
- Valid Government ID – All visitors must present government-issued photo identification.
- TWIC Credential – Required for unescorted access to Secure Areas.
- Escort Policy – A certified Port Freeport TWIC Escort must escort visitors without a TWIC.
For escort training and credential inquiries, please contact the Port Freeport Badge Center by email at badgecenter@portfreeport.com or by phone at 979.373.5943 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM).
Port Freeport reserves the right to deny or revoke access for reasons related to security or safety.
Gate List Request
Individuals with a Port Freeport access badge, drivers transporting cargo to tenant facilities, and commercial shipping providers (e.g., UPS, FedEx, DHL) are exempt from the gate access list requirement.
All other visitors must be listed on the Gate Access List prior to entry. To request access, submit a completed Gate List Form to gaterequests@portfreeport.com
Groups of more than five people (including crew changes, special events, and guided visits) must submit the Gate List Form at least 48 hours prior to arrival.
Driving at Port Freeport
Driver Requirements:
- Commercial drivers must hold a valid CDL (U.S., Mexico, or Canada).
- Other international drivers must hold a Non-Domicile CDL and CLP.
- Visitors with unexpired foreign driver’s licenses may drive for up to one year under Texas reciprocity.
- Texas residents must obtain a state license within 90 days.
All vehicles must maintain insurance as outlined in the Port Freeport Tariff.
Parking at Port Freeport
Parking is limited and regulated. Unauthorized vehicles and cargo may be towed at the owner’s or responsible party’s (i.e., hauler) expense. Port Freeport shall not be responsible for any damage to the vehicle or cargo.
No vehicle/cargo should be left unattended on Port Property. If left unattended, the vehicle and/or cargo may be towed at the owner’s expense. The only exceptions are as follows:
- Visiting the Dole Gate for paperwork
- Visiting the EOC for badge issuance or security assistance
For any mechanical issues, call Port Security at 979.373.5900 to gain permission before leaving a vehicle or cargo unattended.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Program
To operate the controls of an unmanned aerial system (UAS), you must hold an FAA Remote Pilot Airman Certificate with a small UAS rating, in accordance with 14 CFR 107.12.
Eligibility requirements include:- FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)
- Age 18 or older
- Passing FAA aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center.
- If you already hold a Part 61 pilot certificate (excluding a student pilot certificate), you must have completed a flight review within the past 24 months and successfully complete the FAA-provided small UAS online training course.
- Compliance with Texas law prohibiting UAVs below 400 feet over critical infrastructure.
- Before operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over Port Freeport property, pilots must submit an Unmanned Aircraft Authorization Request to Port Freeport Protective Services for approval.
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Seafarers Exiting the Port
- Seafarers without TWIC must be escorted from vessels by a certified Port Freeport TWIC escort.
- Walking unescorted to the gate is prohibited.
- Foreign seafarers are required to obtain a shore pass CBP documentation before exiting Port Freeport.
- U.S. seafarers must provide proof of citizenship.
Transportation:
A free shuttle service is available for seafarers, pilots, seafarers' welfare representatives, and labor organizations. If transportation services are unable to access Port Freeport, please contact Security.
Additionally, if any organization or individual attempts to charge a fee for exiting Port Freeport, please report the incident immediately to Security at 979.373.5900.
Photography Inside the Port
Photos and videos are prohibited in Secure/Restricted, commercial areas, or Port Freeport roadways and parking lots without approval from Port Freeport Security. Upon approval, Port Freeport Protective Services retains the right to review the media to ensure that no commercial or security-sensitive information is disclosed.
Boating Safety and Security
Recreational boaters near Port Freeport must exercise caution around large commercial vessels. They should avoid obstructing these vessels in narrow channels, maintain a safe distance to prevent entering their blind spots, and steer clear of stern wheel wash, which can create hazardous underwater currents.
Effective communication is essential. Boaters should monitor VHF Channel 13 for bridge interactions and Channel 16 for safety calls at key locations, such as the Freeport Jetties and Phillips Bend, especially in low visibility or strong tidal currents.
Security guidelines require compliance with U.S. Coast Guard Security Zones around high-value vessels, extending 1,000 yards ahead and astern and 500 yards abeam. Boaters must listen for announcements on Channel 16 and get permission before entering these zones. Unauthorized intrusions will be reported to the Coast Guard; therefore, it's vital for recreational vessels to remain vigilant and compliant to ensure maritime security.
Report Security Incidents and Port Emergencies
To report incidents and for immediate security needs, please call Port Security at 979.373.5900. This hotline is available 24 hours a day.
For urgent and serious emergencies, please call 911.
For security questions about the Port, please contact the Port Freeport Emergency Operation Center at 979.373.5943 during business hours.
