240 – Dress Code
I. Purpose
This policy establishes dress code directives for Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) employees and contractors (see Applicability).
II. Policy
In order to merit and maintain the public’s trust, employees must maintain a professional dress code suited to their duty and assignment.
Employees are only permitted to wear their HCSO uniform when on-duty, working authorized extra-employment, or when authorized by a supervisor. No part of the uniform may be worn separately unless otherwise noted within this policy or with supervisor authorization. Employees issued a uniform and currently assigned to a uniformed assignment must arrive for duty in full issued uniform. Personnel must not dress or undress in areas within public view (e.g., parking areas).
In addition to the specific provisions of this policy, the Sheriff or their designee have full discretion and authority to issue additional orders regarding employee dress and grooming should they believe it necessary in the future as unanticipated trends, fads, or issues may crop up, in order to maintain the professional standard and image of the HCSO.
III. Personal Grooming
Employees must practice good personal hygiene, wear clean clothes, and keep accessories in acceptable condition. Employees must follow professional standards in all aspects of their appearance.
A. Hair
1. Hair must be a natural hair color.
2. Hair will be neat, clean, and trimmed in order to present a groomed appearance. Wigs or hairpieces may be worn if they conform to the standards for natural hair.
3. Prohibited styles include, but are not limited to, abnormal coloring or multi-coloring, carvings, ducktails, ponytails (for men), mohawks, mullets, tracks or designs cut into the hair on any section of the head, decorations, pigtails, exaggerated raised or sculpted hair styles, variations of these styles, or any other similar styles that would detract from a professional appearance.
4. Afros, braids, locs, or twists may be worn as long as they comply with the other provisions of this policy.
5. Hair may not be worn in a manner that would prevent or interfere with the proper wearing of a respirator, protective mask, helmet, eye protection, or other issued equipment.
6. Barrettes, combs, or other items used to confine or ornament hair must closely approximate the color of the hair or the main color of the uniform shirt or pants.
7. Length Requirement for Men
Hair must not extend further than the top edge of the uniform shirt collar while holding the head erect. At the side, it must not extend further than one-third of the distance down from the top of the ear. If sideburns are worn, they will be neatly trimmed, will not extend more than three-quarters of an inch beyond the lower edge of the ear, end with a clean shaven horizontal line, and if flared, will not be wider than one and one-half inches at the bottom.
8. Length Requirement for Women
Hair must be neat and not of an excessively long length which would present an unprofessional appearance. If wearing a Class A, B, or C uniform, hair must not fall below the yoke line on the back of the shirt. Although hair may not be worn in an exaggerated style, it may be braided or pinned in order to comply with length requirements when wearing a uniform.
B. Facial Hair
Male personnel are permitted four options for facial hair:
1. Clean Shaven – No facial hair (Fig 1).
2. Mustache (See Fig 2).
a. Must be trimmed and not extend below the upper line of the upper lip.
b. If worn alone, may not extend below the corners of the mouth.
c. Extreme styles such as handlebar mustaches are prohibited.
3. Goatee – a mustache that extends down around the side of the mouth and joins hair on the chin, also referred to as a circle beard (Fig 3).
a. Must be worn with a mustache.
b. The cheeks, jaw line, and neck must remain clean shaven.
4. Natural Beard – also referred to as a full set (Fig 4).
a. Must be worn with a mustache.
b. Must cover the complete jaw line.
c. Cheeks must be shaved on and above the cheekbone.
d. The neck must be no more than one inch below the jaw line.
5. The following styles of facial hair are not permitted:
a. Chin Strap Beards – Beards that are trimmed to a thin line along the jaw.
b. Patchy Beards – Beards of uneven or patchy growth.
c. Stubble – Beards shorter than 1/16th of an inch.
6. Facial hair must conform to the following restrictions:
a. The bulk of the beard (distance that the mass of facial hair protrudes from the skin of the face) must not exceed half an inch and be kept trimmed to a consistent length;
b. The beard will consist of a naturally-occurring hair color;
c. No designs may be shaved into facial hair;
d. Facial hair must be neatly sculpted and trimmed.
7. Supervisors must ensure employees conform to an approved style of facial hair.
NOTE: This policy recognizes that facial hair rate of growth may vary for different employees. As such, employees will be allowed a reasonable period of time for their facial hair to “grow in”.
C. Fingernails
Fingernails must be kept clean and neatly-trimmed.
1. Fingernails must be uniform in length and not be excessively long.
2. The fingernails of uniformed personnel must be manicured to no more than one-quarter inch past the longest part of the nail bed.
3. Fingernails of uniformed personnel must not be covered with fluorescent, neon, gold, silver, or any metal-colored polish, or otherwise be flashily colored, designed, or ornamented.
4. Polish, if worn by males, must be either clear or colorless.
5. Polish worn by an employee must be all one color.
D. Earrings, Body Piercings, and Other Jewelry
All personnel must have a professional appearance and any visible jewelry must be conservative in style.
Uniformed employees must abide by the appearance standards regarding the wearing of jewelry and accessories outlined below:
1. All jewelry must be modest and conservatively styled.
2. Only one wristwatch at a time may be worn.
3. Only one ring per hand may be worn. (A wedding set is considered one ring.)
4. Necklaces of any type will be concealed at all times.
5. Bracelets may not be worn unless it is specifically for a medical alert notification.
6. No insignia except that which is authorized by the Sheriff may be worn. Approved insignias are listed in Policy 226 – Commendations, Awards, Nominations, Pins, and Ribbons.
7. Female uniformed employees may wear small, conservative, single-colored earrings on their earlobes. Earrings may not extend below the earlobes or have loose or dangling parts and may not extend above the middle part of the outer ear. Only one earring per ear is permitted.
8. Male uniformed employees may not wear earrings.
9. No jewelry or tie bar may be worn on the uniform tie. Tie tacks may be worn, but must be concealed from view.
10. All jewelry, except that which is specifically authorized by this policy, must be concealed and not visible while in uniform.
Employees may not wear any type of exposed body piercing jewelry or articles (e.g., nose, tongue, eyebrow). This restriction does not apply to classified employees operating in an undercover capacity with written authorization from a bureau commander. Any method of concealment (e.g., bandage) is prohibited.
E. Makeup
Makeup is prohibited with the exception of natural, neutral tones used sparingly. No dark, metallic, or extreme-colored makeup is allowed. Eye makeup must be confined to the upper and lower eyelid.
1. The use of shiny or fluorescent eye shadow is prohibited.
2. Lipstick or lip gloss must be of light, natural colors.
3. The use of neon, bright, and other extreme shades of lipstick or lip gloss is prohibited.
4. Makeup may not be worn by male employees.
F. Eyelashes
1. Styling of eyelashes, false eyelashes, and eyelash extensions are allowed if they are natural in appearance (e.g., style, length, volume, color, etc.), tasteful, and do not detract from a professional appearance. False eyelashes or eyelash extensions will not exceed ½ inch in length.
G. Glasses and Sunglasses
Eyewear must be conservative in color and style and reflect a professional image.
H. Body Art, Tattoos, Body Piercings, and Mutilation
1. Tattoos and other body art are prohibited if they are offensive, inappropriate, or present an unprofessional appearance. This policy applies not only to tattoos a person has at the time their employment with HCSO begins, but any tattoo they get while employed with the HCSO. This includes, but is not limited to, those that are:
a. Racist,
b. Of a type and style worn by a criminal street gang as defined by the Texas Penal Code Chapter 71,
c. Depicting hatred or ill will towards any class of persons; including but not limited to any race, color, ethnicity, religion, or nationality,
d. Sexually suggestive, containing vulgar or offensive words, or explicit, or
e. Otherwise undermining the HCSO core values.
2. Having tattoos and other body art on the head, face, neck, and ears is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
a. Foreign objects inserted under the skin,
b. Pierced, split, or forked tongue, and
c. Stretched-out holes in the ears (gauges).
3. Tattoos on hands are not encouraged, but will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Employees will write a letter through the chain of command to the Chief Deputy asking for approval prior to getting the tattoo done for this to be applicable. Cosmetic tattooing and wedding band tattoos are allowed if it is within reason and does not present a gaudy appearance.
4. The Sheriff or designee, reserve the right to require any employee to cover a prohibited tattoo.
5. The use of gold, platinum, silver, or other veneer caps for the purposes of dental ornamentation is prohibited. Teeth, whether natural, capped, or veneered, must not be ornamented with designs, jewels, initials, or similar.
IV. Uniform Requirements
A. Employees will either be issued a set of uniforms or polo shirts, or have the option to wear plain clothing, depending on their assignment. All uniforms will be issued or authorized for issue through HCSO Uniform Supply. The manager of Uniform Supply will issue serviceable uniform items to employees and their decisions will be final on the suitability of an item for issue, as well as determining which contractors, suppliers, or brands will constitute “official” HCSO ones for insignia sources.
1. Deputies and detention personnel will be issued Class A and C uniforms.
2. The Class A uniform is the dress uniform of the HCSO. Items for this uniform are denoted as “Class A” in the Uniform Supply issue roster and differ for certified personnel and detention officers. They include the Class A long sleeve shirt, the Class A pants, a felt hat, an AccuMold duty belt with matching accessories, S.O. insignia, and a navy colored tie.
3. Class B uniforms are issued to deputies and detention personnel whose positions may require or benefit from it, as determined by their supervisor or standard operating procedures (SOPs). The Class B uniform consists of a short or long sleeve version of the Class A shirt and worn with no tie, the name plate, and pins as described in Section VII. The Class A pants are worn with the Class B shirt along with the AccuMold duty belt and accessories.
4. Class C uniforms are utility uniforms intended to be worn as the usual uniform of the day and are denoted as “Class C” on the Uniform Supply issue roster. They include the Class C short and long sleeve shirts, the Class C pants, and the same AccuMold duty belt with accessories. Insignias, rank as it applies, and the uniform badge are made of fabrics and are sewn onto the shirts. With the Class C uniform, accessories matching the color of the duty belt other than Accumold accessories may be worn so long as they present a professional appearance and are otherwise consistent with this policy.
5. The cuffs of long-sleeved shirts will be buttoned and not rolled up.
6. Shirts will be worn with buttons buttoned and zippers zipped, and tucked in; when a shirt is worn without a tie, only the uppermost button will be left unbuttoned.
7. If an employee is required to wear issued pants (such as if wearing the Class A uniform), they cannot wear personally purchased pants unless those pants meet the same specifications (including color, fabric, and quality) as the regulation issued pants.
8. Communications personnel will be issued polo shirts and pants.
9. Professional staff members, as well as deputies and detention officers assigned to non-uniformed positions, may be issued polo shirts and are expected to dress in business casual. However, deputies and detention officers may also wear their Class A, B, or C uniform per preference or as appropriate.
10. Female personnel in any position can request to switch to plain clothing during pregnancy. If they are in a position that requires the wearing of a uniform, this may require them accepting a change of assignment or modified duty.
11. Members of special units may be issued uniforms which are specific to their assignment, typically a variation of the Class C uniform (see Section XI, Specialty Uniforms). However, specialty uniforms are not authorized to be worn while working extra employment.
B. While wearing the uniform, the complete uniform described in this policy must be worn. The uniform may not be worn as separate pieces, and clothing which is not part of the uniform may not be worn with the uniform. All parts of the uniform will be worn in the manner in which they are designed to be worn (e.g., hats will not be worn backwards).
C. Pins, badges, nametags, buttons, and other uniform accessories will generally be silver for non-supervisory personnel and gold for supervisory personnel. Certain pins may be made of a single coloration and style.
D. Any unauthorized or unnecessary alteration to county-issued uniforms will result in the employee purchasing each altered garment or uniform.
E. When Wearing Class A, B, or C Uniforms:
1. Hats must not interfere with the rest of the uniform or performance of duties. If a hat is approved by this policy, but would interfere with the rest of the uniform or performance of duties, wearing it becomes prohibited. Nothing should be added or affixed to the approved hats. In inclement weather, the approved hat must be protected with a clear rain cover.
2. Except for deputies and detention officers, no HCSO shoulder patches, badges, or lettering are authorized to be worn on a polo, jacket, or other clothing. When worn, these must correspond to the position of the employee – i.e., a detention officer must have a detention officer patch.
3. Socks must be black or navy.
4. White undershirts may be worn only if they are not visible. Crew or V-neck undershirts may be visibly worn if they are navy or black.
5. Trousers must not be altered in such a manner as to taper the leg tightly around the ankle or knee area (“leg pegging”).
6. For the Class C uniform, blue baseball caps matching the color of the standard Class C duty uniform may be worn. The approved ball cap must have an official mini HCSO patch sewn on the front of the cap, and displayed so it is clearly visible. The baseball style cap is not authorized with the Class B uniform.
7. The straw hat may be worn with the Class B uniform only.
8. A wool or knit cap (employee purchase) may be worn during cold weather conditions of 40 degrees and below.
a. Only an approved, solid black-colored wool or knit cap may be worn.
b. An official, small HCSO patch must be sewn onto the front of the wool or knit cap and visibly displayed.
c. A dark colored headband approximating the color of the HCSO Class C uniform may be worn with or without the wool or knit cap to provide additional warmth.
9. Only a regulation-issue jacket, an approved windbreaker (employee purchase), or a soft-shell jacket (employee purchase) may be worn. The windbreaker must have shoulder seams that allow for proper placement of the HCSO shoulder patches and any appropriate rank designations (i.e., no raglan, French style, or drop shoulder sleeves). The regulation-issue HCSO shoulder patch must be worn on both sleeves of each shirt, jacket, and approved windbreaker, centered half an inch under each epaulet.
a. A cloth badge must be sewn onto the front left breast area.
b. An approved windbreaker may have “SHERIFF” printed in white on the back for deputies and “DETENTION OFFICER” in white for detention officers. Deputy and detention supervisors will have the same lettering, but in gold color.
c. Uniformed deputies assigned to special duty status, such as Honor Guard, Motorcycle Unit, or firearms instructor, may wear approved emblems representing the duty status. Other logos or emblems printed on the back, or lettering printed on the sleeves, is prohibited.
F. TCOLE Master Proficiency Certification Chevron
Master proficiency means a deputy or detention officer has obtained the master peace officer proficiency or master jailer proficiency certificate respectively from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). A qualified deputy or detention officer is eligible to wear master proficiency chevrons regardless of their years of service with HCSO.
1. Chevrons indicating master proficiency may be worn on both sleeves of each uniform shirt, jacket, and approved windbreaker, centered half an inch under the HCSO patch for those qualified.
2. Proof of master proficiency certification must be presented to the Human Resources Division (HR) to verify qualification before an employee may be issued chevrons from Uniform Supply.
3. Supervisors are not eligible to wear the master proficiency certification chevrons.
NOTE: For Telecommunications Officers with Master Telecommunicator proficiency certification, see Section IX (B).
G. Rank Emblems and Insignia
1. Emblems and insignia must be regulation-issue.
2. Sergeants must have gold supervisor chevrons on both sleeves of each shirt, jacket, and approved windbreaker, centered half an inch under the HCSO patch. Supervisor chevrons for sergeants and detention sergeants are the same.
3. The rank insignia of lieutenants and above must be worn on each shirt, jacket, and approved windbreaker, centered on the outward stitched section of each epaulet. In the case of an assistant chief (two stars) the two stars will be centered on this section. The Chief Deputy will wear a third star, touching the first two and placed inwards towards the collar. The Sheriff will wear four stars total, with the outward two centered and the next two placed inwards touching towards the collar.
H. Footwear when wearing a Class B or C Uniform:
Black boots or black shoes are authorized to be worn with the Class C uniform, uniforms with a polo shirt, and when wearing approved county shorts with the Class C shirt or polo shirt.
1. The footwear will be clean, serviceable, and well-maintained. The footwear will be constructed of leather or nylon, or similar synthetic materials, have rounded toes, and have black rubber or carbon rubber soles and heels. Velcro, buckle, or loafer type footwear will not be worn.
2. All laces, stitching, and eyelets will be black in color. There will be no visible design other than discreet manufacturer logos or stamps that are black in color and that do not detract from a professional appearance. The maximum height of the heels will be 1 ½ inches.
3. When wearing Class A and Class B uniforms, polished tactical boots, conservatively styled cowboy boots with standard length toes, or high gloss oxfords that are black in color must be worn. Athletic shoes are not allowed.
Examples of approved and not approved footwear for Class C uniforms, uniforms with a polo shirt and tactical pants, and units wearing approved county shorts with the Class C shirt or polo shirt are illustrated below, followed by examples of approved and not approved footwear for Class A and B uniforms.
Class C Uniforms
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V. Class A
The Class A uniform is intended for formal occasions, such as award ceremonies, funerals, meetings, or other occasions where it is deemed appropriate by a supervisor. The Class A uniform is a long-sleeve shirt with S.O. collar insignia and metal shirt buttons, tie, regular uniform pants with gold piping, and may include a felt hat.
A. Body armor will be worn with the inner carrier beneath their Class A shirt. Outer carriers may not be worn with a Class A uniform.
B. Employees issued a felt hat can wear the hat with the Class A uniform.
1. The hat must not be altered or reshaped in any form other than as authorized by the dress code.
C. The Class A shirt must have a single “S.O.” pin worn on each side of the collar, 1.5 inches from the collar tip. The lower edge of the pin must be horizontal and parallel to the collar seam.
D. Years of service stripes may be affixed on the left sleeve of the Class A uniform shirt. Each stripe will signify five whole years employed as a commissioned peace officer or licensed and employed county jailer as reported by TCOLE. The years of service pin that is worn on the Class B uniform will not be worn on the Class A uniform.
1. The service stripes must be sewn to the lower front of the left sleeve.
2. The stripes will be at a 45-degree angle with the lower edge of the sleeve, placed toward the outside of the sleeve, and be even with the sleeves inside crease.
3. The lower corner of the service stripe will be one inch above the upper seam of the sleeve cuff.
4. Employees may only wear service stripes for accrued time in their current position. For example, an employee with five years of service as a detention officer who becomes a deputy and serves as that for five years would wear one stripe.
5. Service stripes will be gold for all employees.
E. The official HCSO-issued badge must be worn above the left breast pocket.
F. The HCSO-issued name tag must be worn over the right breast pocket, one-eighth inch above the top edge of the pocket flap.
VI. Standards for wearing uniform pins and ribbons [See Attachment A also]
Pins and ribbons on the Class A uniform will be worn in the below described fashion. See Department Policy #226- Commendations, Awards, Nominations, Pins, and Ribbons for a full description of authorized uniform pins and ribbons.
A. Pins and ribbons will be worn centered above the nameplate. One eighth of an inch (1/8th) will separate the nameplate from the top of the right uniform shirt pocket. An additional one eighth of an inch will separate the nameplate vertically from any other items above the nameplate, and there will be one-eighth of an inch between all specialty and achievement pins, and ribbons and pins. Only rectangular style achievement and specialty pins will be worn above the ribbons.
B. Ribbons will be worn touching, either by individual positioning or in a holder. A maximum of three ribbons will be worn side to side. All ribbons will be centered on the right pocket.
C. Employees may wear a single specialty pin and a single achievement pin. Rectangular specialty pins will be worn above rectangular achievement pins, separated by 1/8th of an inch, and 1/8th of an inch above any ribbons. Any specialty or achievement pin that is circular or in a shape other than rectangular (CIRT, 100 Club, Firearms Instructor, Mounted Patrol, military service) may be worn in the middle of and centered on the right pocket flap of the Class A uniform. In the case of more than one pin with a non-rectangular shape on the pocket, the achievement pin will be worn centered between the right edge and the center of the pocket. The specialty pin in question will be worn centered between the left edge and the center of the pocket.
No more than two non-rectangular pins (circular or other) may be worn on the pocket flap of the Class A uniform shirt. A person with more than two non-rectangular pins may choose to wear:
1. One non-rectangular achievement and one non-rectangular specialty pin on the right pocket flap, with no rectangular pins.
2. One non-rectangular achievement or specialty pin on the pocket, and one rectangular achievement or specialty pin above the ribbons. Again, only one achievement and one specialty pin will be worn.
3. One rectangular achievement and one rectangular specialty pin, both above ribbons, with no non-rectangular pins.
D. The years of service pin will be worn above the nameplate only on the Class B uniform short sleeve shirt with 1/8th of an inch separation above and below the pin. The years of service pin will not be worn with the Class A uniform.
E. When more than one ribbon is worn, ribbons will be worn in descending order as specified below. If two may be mounted across the first one will be worn to the left side as viewed and the next one down on this list will be worn to the right side as viewed. If there are an odd number of ribbons to be worn, the ribbon last in order will be worn centered on the top of the group; still touching top to bottom. For instance: A deputy wearing Bravery, Lifesaving, and Perfect Attendance would wear Bravery to the left of Lifesaving, with Perfect Attendance centered above those two ribbons.
01. Bravery
02. Valor or Purple Heart/Blue Heart
03. Lifesaving
04. De-Escalation
05. Merit Award
06. Outstanding Community Service
07. 100 Club (One ribbon OR pin per award)
08. Outstanding Supervisor
09. Safe Driving
10. Perfect Attendance
11. Unit Citation
12. National Defense
13. Hurricane or Disaster Service
14. Leadership Development Institute
15. Breast Cancer Awareness
VII. Class B Insignias
The Class B uniform, when issued, is approved for everyday use, except when the occasion or assignment has another uniform specified by a supervisor. The Class B uniform consists of the short sleeve uniform shirt with S.O. collar insignia and metal shirt buttons and pants with gold piping.
A. The badge, nametags, and S.O. pins must be affixed in the same manner as the Class A uniform.
B. No pins or ribbons may be worn with the Class B uniform except the mourning badge cover, TCOLE Master Proficiency Certification pin or Honor Guard pin, the Military Branch Pin centered on the right pocket flap of the uniform shirt, and the years of service pin which sits above the nametag.
C. Body armor may be worn with the inner carrier beneath the Class B shirt or with the outer carrier. If the outer carrier is worn with the Class B uniform no pins or ribbons will be worn on it.
VIII. Class C Insignias
The Class C uniform is approved for everyday use, except when the occasion or assignment has another uniform specified by a supervisor. The Class C uniform consists of the BDU/Utility long or short sleeve shirt with sewn on badge patch and name tag, and BDU pants.
A. A cloth name strip and a cloth badge must be sewn onto each shirt.
B. No pins or ribbons may be worn with the Class C uniform except the mourning badge cover pin and the Military Branch Pin. The Military Branch Pin may be worn centered on the right pocket flap of the Class C uniform shirt.
C. Deputies must have “SHERIFF” in reflective lettering on the back of the shirt.
D. Body armor inner or outer carriers may be worn with a Class C uniform.
IX. Polo Shirts
Employees issued polo shirts are authorized to wear them every day, except when the occasion or assignment has another uniform specified by a supervisor. Polo shirts will be embroidered according to the employee’s position and employees may not wear a polo shirt which displays a division, rank, or title which they are not actively assigned.
A. Polo shirts may be worn with issued Class C pants, tactical pants, or business casual pants along with authorized footwear for deputies and detention personnel in non-uniformed positions.
B. Master Telecommunicator Proficiency Certification
A telecommunications officer obtaining TCOLE master telecommunicator proficiency certification will be acknowledged by having “MTO” added at the end of their name tag.
X. Plain Clothes
Employees permitted to wear plain clothes must conform to a business casual style, except when participating in formal occasions where a Class A uniform is expected, in which case, they should dress in formal clothing. Specific dress standards should reflect prevailing professional social standards. Extreme styles, colors, and fabrics are not acceptable.
A. Females may wear dresses, skirts, and coordinated blouses with a skirt or slacks.
B. Men may wear dress shirts with open collars and dress pants with no coat provided that an appropriate coordinated sport coat or suit jacket and tie is immediately accessible. Shirts must be tucked into pants.
C. Belts must be plain black with a simple buckle or no buckle, or may be another color if it coordinates with the outfit worn.
D. The color and type of footwear should be coordinated with the style of dress being worn and as specified in the footwear section of this policy.
E. Head covers that are required for religious purposes are allowed.
F. The following items are prohibited:
1. Jeans or shorts,
2. Leggings or spandex,
3. Extreme or ornate tie tacks,
4. Flip-flops or slippers,
5. Shirts with no collars,
6. Skirts shorter than one inch above the knees, and
7. Miniskirts or spaghetti strap dresses.
G. Purses may be carried by female personnel. Purses should be conservative and not gaudy or excessive in style and color.
H. Plain clothes employees who are authorized to wear otherwise prohibited clothing or jewelry for an assignment (such as undercover investigations) must abide by this section when not on their assignment (e.g., attending training at the Academy).
I. Deputies in plain clothes must visibly display their badges while on duty, on or near HCSO premises, or while involved in an investigation. Handcuffs and service weapons must be carried in a manner so as not to be provocative or offensive. For other public activities, the badge, handcuffs, and service weapon must be inconspicuous.
XI. Specialty Uniforms
Employees may have specific dress code requirements for their assignment, in which case the dress code for their assignment is governed by their supervisor and SOP. Units with special uniform requirements must otherwise conform to the remaining provisions of the dress code policy.
Uniform Supply personnel will be generally responsible for procedures pertaining to uniform issue under the direction of the commander of the Administrative Services Bureau. In any situation where this policy does not specify the manner to properly wear a uniform item, the employee’s bureau commander or chief will make the determination pending an update of this policy or an executive order. As the details of specialty uniforms and their issuance may change often, details on properly wearing them include but are not limited to the following examples:
A. Bicycle Patrol and Outdoor Work Programs
Uniformed deputies who are part of a unit requiring them to be outside under heat and direct sun for the majority of their shift may be authorized to wear the HCSO approved bicycle pants or shorts with the Class C short sleeve shirt.
1. These units include:
a. Bicycle Patrol,
b. Graffiti Abatement,
2. A bicycle helmet must be worn in conjunction with the bicycle uniform while performing bicycle patrol duties.
3. An HCSO approved baseball cap may be worn in conjunction with the bicycle shorts, but not in lieu of a bicycle helmet while riding.
B. Air Support Unit
Uniformed deputies assigned to the Air Support Unit can wear the approved Nomex® flight suit, Multicam combat/field uniform, or optional polo-style flight shirt with Class C pants in compliance with any of their applicable SOPs.
C. Motorcycle Units
Uniformed deputies assigned to operate a motorcycle must abide by the following rules while riding a motorcycle:
1. Wear A Helmet
Deputies must wear a helmet while riding. The helmet will be regulation-issue by or meet the standards of the Vehicular Crimes Division with an approved HCSO badge decal on both sides.
2. Regulation Motorcycle Jacket
A regulation-issued motorcycle jacket, rain jacket, or optional HCSO windbreaker (employee purchase) is allowed to be worn with a full uniform. The windbreaker must have shoulder seams that allow for proper placement of the HCSO shoulder patches and any appropriate rank designations (i.e., no raglan, French style, or drop shoulder sleeves).
3. Trousers
The motorcycle riding trousers or rain trousers will be regulation-issued.
4. Boots
The motorcycle boots will be regulation-issued by or meet the standards of the Vehicular Crimes Division and must be kept highly polished.
Note: Deputies riding motorcycles for extra employment will wear clothing and equipment authorized by this policy, but will usually be required to privately purchase it.
D. HCSO Reserve Deputies
Deputies who are members of the HCSO Reserves and hold supervisory rank will wear the uniform of a deputy without supervisor rank while they are working in their capacity as a peace officer for this agency in any uniformed role.
XII. Service Weapons, Holsters, and Armor
Service weapons, related accessories, and armor worn or used by a deputy or armed detention officer in the performance of duty must be approved by the HCSO. Employees who are neither a deputy nor an armed detention officer are prohibited from carrying weapons while on-duty.
A. Service Weapons
1. Fully-Loaded Weapon
a. Employees authorized to carry service weapons must carry them fully-loaded.
b. Service weapons are subject to the requirements of Policy #702 – Firearms Control, Qualifications, and Training and any other applicable portion of the Department Manual.
c. Cartridge loop holders, speed loaders, and magazines for semi-automatic weapons must be fully loaded.
2. Additional Ammunition
In addition to a fully-loaded firearm, employees authorized to carry firearms will carry at least two complements of extra ammunition (i.e., two speed loaders – six rounds each, or two magazines – fully loaded). Duty ammunition must be purchased by the employee No polymer magazines with transparent bodies allowing the contained ammunition to be seen will be worn or used.
B. Weapon Holsters (employee purchase)
Weapon holsters must have the original manufacturer’s configuration and attach to the duty belt through a high-ride, mid-ride, or low-ride belt loop.
1. Deputies must only carry holsters manufactured by Safariland which utilize the Automatic Locking System (ALS) retention, Self-Locking System (SLS) retention, or a combination of both retention systems.
2. Plain-clothes and off-duty deputies may utilize holsters other than those manufactured by Safariland.
3. Blackhawk Serpa or similar style holsters that utilize a retention device activated and de-activated with the trigger finger are prohibited for use on or off-duty.
4. Swivel holsters are prohibited.
NOTE: Drop-down or tactical holsters may only be worn by specialized units as authorized by the Sheriff or designee for a specific duty assignment.
C. Speed Loaders (employee purchase)
Up to three six-round loaders may be worn on a duty belt with a revolver. Holders for speed loaders must be of the same type and quality material as HCSO-issued leather or nylon gear.
D. Magazine Pouch (employee purchase)
One magazine pouch must be worn with a semi-automatic weapon. The magazine pouch may hold up to three magazines for double-stacked weapons, and up to four magazines for single-stacked weapons. Additional magazine pouches are not permitted on the belt.
E. Body Armor:
1. Body armor must be provided to deputies under the oversight of Uniform Supply. The type and quantity of body armor issued will be determined by assignment and must be worn in accordance with bureau policies.
2. Body armor carriers will be made available for purchase through the HCSO-approved vendor to employees desiring additional carriers beyond those provided.
3. Supervisors will ensure compliance with this policy. Deputies found to be not in compliance will be subject to discipline.
4. The following must wear their issued body armor while wearing the official classified uniform:
a. Classified employees regularly or temporarily assigned to a uniformed division at which they regularly interact with the public, suspects or prisoners. This includes armed detention officers (ADOs).
b. Classified employees working uniformed extra employment.
5. Plainclothes classified employees will also wear body armor when conducting high-risk operations or as required for officer safety by their chain of command.
6. Uniform Supply will only issue body armor to classified employees unless otherwise approved by the Sheriff.
a. To guard against the potential development of heat-related illness, especially while wearing body armor, supervisors should be cognizant of particular assignments in conditions of abnormally high heat and/or humidity. In such circumstances, supervisors should ensure their subordinates have adequate breaks to cool down and remain hydrated.
b. Classified employees should notify their supervisors of the need for breaks during such assignments.
c. In response to extreme high temperatures that pose a clear risk of heat illness or injury due to the physical condition of an employee, a supervisor may exempt them from wearing body armor.
d. An employee so exempted should be reassigned temporarily as needed for officer safety.
7. Exceptions
a. Classified employees that have been given exempt status in writing from the Sheriff may elect to not wear body armor.
b. An employee who, on their physician’s advice, should not wear body armor is exempt from wearing it, but will be reassigned temporarily or as needed to an assignment not requiring them to wear body armor.
8. Carriers
Outer carriers are approved for wear over the regulation-issued Class B and C uniform shirt.
a. Outer carriers must have a sewn-on cloth badge and cloth name strip.
b. The HCSO-issued badge and name plate must be worn with the outer carrier if they are not sewn-on.
c. “SHERIFF” in reflective lettering must be located on the back of the carrier.
d. Employees may be issued different styles of outer carriers depending on their assignment. Some maybe styled like the Class C uniform shirt, and certain others will be tactically styled with MOLLE or similar attachment points. The tactically styled carrier will be authorized for wear by the units issued them only. This may include, but is not limited to: HCSO K-9, Crime Reduction Units, SWAT, Criminal Warrants, GSU, GCVOTF, etc.. Employees will not wear outer carriers with their uniforms that they are not authorized to wear. As the Point Blank Endeavor carrier is issued upon expiration of an employee’s body armor serviceability, outer carriers that an employee has been issued and authorized to wear previously will no longer be authorized to wear.
e. The Point Blank Endeavor carrier is to be worn on the outside of the Class B or C uniform shirt only. Accessory pouches for the Endeavor carrier may be worn in compliance with the Class B or C uniform shirt. Depending on the physicality of the employee, different employees may find different pouches and their arrangement uniquely practical. The number of and arrangement of the pouches, if they are worn, will:
i. Not clutter the carrier to the point of covering the badge, nametape, or lettering,
ii. Not pose an officer safety problem; ie. Preventing the proper use and wearing of the Taser/CED or radio, or other essential equipment, in the judgment of their supervisor,
iii. Not hold the duty firearm, which will be carried on the belt in a department approved holster,
iv. Not in any way impair the proper wear or operation of the issued BWC, which will be attached inside of the carrier in the approved attachment point, and
v. Not otherwise violate the other provisions of this or another department policy.
f. No pins or ribbons will be worn on outer carriers.
F. Rifle-Plate Body Armor
Rifle-plate body armor must be provided to deputies under the oversight of Uniform Supply. This body armor should be worn in conjunction with the deputy’s regular issued body armor; either with the inner or outer carrier, in any situation involving active shooters, or the threat of long guns (shotguns/rifles).
1. The body armor and carrier must be carried with the deputy during assigned duty hours.
2. Body armor must not be left inside a vehicle for an extended period of time (i.e. trunk of patrol vehicle), as the material of the armored plates are susceptible to heat, rendering the equipment ineffective.
3. The body armor must be removed from any vehicle it is stored or transported in at the end of the deputy’s tour of duty and kept in a safe location.
XIII. Accessories and Other Equipment
A. Belt
The uniform belt must be plain black leather with no belt buckle or with a plain buckle that must not exceed the belt width. The belt must not be visible when a Sam Browne or nylon duty belt is worn.
B. Duty Belt
The AccuMold duty belt will be worn with the Class A, B, and C uniforms. The authorized AccuMold duty belt, keepers, and cuff case are the following:
1. Bianchi AccuMold Elite 2 ¼” Duty Belt
2. Bianchi AccuMold Elite Belt Keepers 4-PK
3. Bianchi AccuMold Elite Single Cuff Case
The holster and magazine pouch for the AccuMold duty belt will remain an employee purchase item.
The formerly issued high gloss duty belt and accessories remain as special issue items through Uniform Supply to the HCSO Honor Guard for their specific activities.
Exception: Deputies assigned to Harris County administration and detention facilities may not be required to wear AccuMold duty belt while on duty and inside the facility except as directed by a supervisor. However, a deputy’s AccuMold duty belt, firearm, and other equipment should be easily accessible to the deputy.
C. Snaps
Hidden snaps attached to the trouser belt and the inside of the duty belt are allowed. Double-wide snaps are permitted but must be worn in the back only.
D. O-Ring (employee purchase)
O-rings may be worn specifically for retaining a flashlight or baton. No more than two O-rings must be worn at any time.
1. The “straight stick” baton must be carried in an oval metal ring attached to the duty belt by a strap fastener.
2. The expandable baton must be carried in a scabbard of a material and a configuration that is compatible with the duty belt when carried in uniform. If the expandable baton is being carried by an employee not in uniform, it must be concealed from view.
E. Handcuffs
1. At least one pair of handcuffs (employee purchase) must be carried in the handcuff pouch. A maximum of two handcuff pouches, either single or double pouch, open or closed flap, may be worn on the Sam Browne or nylon duty belt.
2. A handcuff key must be carried and kept separately from the handcuffs.
3. Only black or silver colored handcuffs are permitted.
F. Flashlight (employee purchase)
A flashlight (black-colored only) may be carried on the Sam Browne or nylon duty belt. It must be retained by an O-ring, and its maximum length must not exceed 18 inches. A mini flashlight may be worn on the Sam Browne or nylon duty belt in an appropriately-designed pouch (black-colored only).
G. Raincoats
Raincoats worn with the HCSO uniform must be HCSO regulation-issue only. Black raincoat leggings may be worn with the county-issued raincoat. These leggings are optional and must be purchased at the employee’s expense.
Raincoats are typically only issued to employees expected to spend the majority of their shift outdoors, such as deputies.
H. Purses, Wallets, and Backpacks
No purses or hand-carried wallets may be carried or worn by employees while in uniform. Items that need to be hand-carried may instead be carried in a plain briefcase of conservative style and color.
Backpacks may be carried to and from an employee’s assigned duty area. The approved backpack must be of a conservative style and black-colored, except for employees assigned to detention facilities in which case it must be clear and see-through. The backpack must not be worn during the performance of the employee’s routine duties.
I. Special Uniforms and Equipment
Special uniforms and equipment for very specific functions will be addressed independently of the dress code (e.g., Academy or Honor Guard).
J. Reflective Vest
A lime green reflective safety vest with “SHERIFF” in black lettering must be worn with the uniform (on or off duty) any time a deputy is directing traffic or involved in a traffic control function.
K. Cellular Telephone
A cellular telephone may be worn with the duty belt or other belt, except where otherwise prohibited by HCSO’s standard operating procedures. The cellphone must be black or covered by a black case while in the Class A uniform, and may be worn with the Class B or C uniform if the appearance of the phone and case do not detract from a professional appearance.
XIV. Religious and Medical Exemptions
The HCSO does not discriminate against any employee because of that person’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual or gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
A. The HCSO is committed to accommodating an employee in regard to a dress code issue where the employee proves a unique need due to a bona fide medical condition or a firmly-established religious belief and such condition or belief does not otherwise prevent the employee from fulfilling their normally assigned job duties.
B. An employee who believes that, for religious or medical reasons, they should be allowed to deviate from the dress code policy may request an accommodation from the Sheriff or designee.
C. The employee may request as many accommodations as may be required by their religion or medical condition.
D. A medical condition must be documented by a physician and a medical exception must fit within the course and scope of the employee’s normal job duties.
E. The Chief Deputy must review each request on a case-by-case basis.
1. Circumstances surrounding the request must be investigated in order to determine whether the accommodation will be granted or denied.
2. Any potential safety issues or operational concerns the requested accommodation would have on the employee, the HCSO, other employees, inmates, and the public must be taken into account.
F. If an accommodation that refers to the wearing of an article of faith is approved, the cost associated with the procuring of and maintaining of the article of faith must be borne by the employee.
NOTE: Examples of articles of faith are head covers, clothing, jewelry, objects, symbols, and other items of dress of religious significance that are firmly established within the employee’s religion.
G. Any approved accommodation must be noted in writing and specifically describe the accommodation being made by the HCSO. The written approval must be placed in the employee’s personnel file.
1. If an employee is not satisfied with the ruling of the Chief Deputy, the employee may request a hearing with the Sheriff to present their reasons for the request for the accommodation or the objections to the specific nature of the approval or denial. The Sheriff’s determination will be final if a hearing is requested.
2. A denial of a request for accommodation must state the reasons for such denial.
H. In the event that an accommodation becomes a health or safety issue for any employee, inmate, or the public, the Sheriff or Chief Deputy reserves the right to cancel a previously approved accommodation.
NOTE: An employee may appeal the cancellation of an accommodation as they would the denial of an accommodation.
XV. Applicability
The dress code applies to HCSO employees and HCSO contract employees working in HCSO facilities or on HCSO property while on-duty, or any time they are acting on behalf of the HCSO, as well as when off-duty where specified.
Personnel assigned to a covert operations assignment, or those assigned to duties that require uniform modification for specific duties not addressed in this policy, may be excluded from compliance with specific portions of the policy by their division commander.
A. Special Situations
1. When attending law enforcement related classes, conferences, or activities outside of the department as a student or observer when personnel are not actively engaging in official functions as members of the HCSO, a department uniform or civilian attire appropriate to the activity that does not bring discredit upon the HCSO or the wearer, and that meets the standards of those hosting the activity may be worn. Personnel attending classes at the HCSO Academy will observe the current dress code for the HCSO Academy.
2. Appropriate Academy attendance dress will be the department uniform or business casual civilian attire. The following items are specifically prohibited:
a. No T-shirts with suggestive graphics or wording.
b. Sleeveless shirts.
c. Shorts(unless attending physical fitness class), or overalls.
d. Denim attire that is cut and/or shaved to see ANY skin under the jeans.
e. Tank-tops or muscle shirts.
f. Spandex or legging type material unless attending physical activity classes; if worn these must be covered by shorts or pants that are appropriate for physical activity.
g. Footwear will be appropriate for duty, training, safety and/or business professional complimenting the level of dress. Sandals, flip-flop or shower shoes are specifically prohibited.
XVI. Unserviceable Uniform
If an HCSO-issued part of the uniform becomes unserviceable, the employee must return the item to Uniform Supply for replacement.
XVII. Off-Duty Requirements For Deputies
A. While off duty and with the exceptions described below, deputies must carry or have in their immediate possession their HCSO-issued badge or valid HCSO identification, and an approved, fully-loaded firearm. The firearm should be concealed, and carried properly in a holster and in such a manner that it would be secure from movement and unauthorized access.
This section does not apply when the deputy is engaged in activities (e.g., sports) that make carrying such identification and weapon impractical or during activities such as attending educational classes, a place of worship, or traveling outside the State of Texas.
B. Deputies will adhere to all TSA rules governing firearms checking in, carrying, and transportation at airport checkpoints and secured areas.
C. A deputy is expected to use the utmost discretion in carrying a firearm when they are consuming any alcohol or any lawfully possessed drug so that they retain the ability to make sound judgment calls and possess adequate situational awareness. This requires a deputy to not have consumed alcohol or any drug to the point that they lack their normal mental and physical faculties.
Texas Penal Code 49.01: (2) “Intoxicated” means: (A) not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into the body; or (B) having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more.
No deputy will possess a firearm while intoxicated.
The deputy is strongly encouraged to consider the need for an immediate law enforcement response before taking any law enforcement action in a situation that arises while they are drinking alcohol or may be under the influence of any drug. A deputy taking law enforcement action while under said influence, even if they may not be intoxicated, may not be considered as acting within the course and scope of their employment. HCSO does not condone a deputy consuming any alcohol while in the situations described above. Deputies should seek the advice of their physician and/or supervisor in any situation where they need guidance on obedience to this policy, particularly in reference to prescribed medications from their physician.
Deputies, therefore, will avoid being in any situation where their judgment or fitness to make sound and lawful decisions can be called into question due to consumption of drugs or alcohol in the event they may use a firearm while taking law enforcement action.
Also see: HCSO Policies #204 (Drug and Alcohol Policy) and #242 (Duty to Carry Firearms)
Revision
This policy has been revised on the below listed dates:
August 16, 2018 December 10, 2024
November 28, 2018
February 15, 2019
May 21, 2019
December 3, 2020
August 4, 2021
Attachments
[See the PDF for the attachments.]