July 1, 2004, revised November 1, 2004 To establish guidelines governing the appearance of all Atlanta Police Department employees.

  [ Administration ]  [ Personnel ]  [ General Operations ]  [ Field Operations ]  [ Criminal Investigations
[ Support Operations ]  [ Special Orders ]  [
Command Memo ]  [ Library ]  [ Search ]  [ Home ]

 

Atlanta Police Department

Policy Manual

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standard Operating

Procedure

 

Effective Date

August 1, 2011

 

APD.SOP.2130

Dress Code 

Applicable To:  All employees

Approval Authority:  Chief George N. Turner

Signature:  Signed by GNT

Date Signed:  7/22/11

 

Table of Content

 

1.          PURPOSE  PAGEREF _Toc299538716 \h 1

2.          POLICY  PAGEREF _Toc299538717 \h 1

3.          RESPONSIBILITIES  PAGEREF _Toc299538718 \h 2

4.          ACTION   PAGEREF _Toc299538719 \h 2

4.1           General PAGEREF _Toc299538720 \h 2

4.2           General Appearance  PAGEREF _Toc299538721 \h 3

4.2.6        Fingernails  PAGEREF _Toc299538722 \h 4

4.3           Sworn Employees  PAGEREF _Toc299538723 \h 5

4.3.1        Class A Uniform for Captain and Above  PAGEREF _Toc299538724 \h 5

4.3.2        Class A Uniform for  Lieutenant and Below   PAGEREF _Toc299538725 \h 6

4.3.17      Body Armor PAGEREF _Toc299538726 \h 17

4.3.18      Equipment and Leather Gear PAGEREF _Toc299538727 \h 17

4.3.19      Traffic Vest PAGEREF _Toc299538728 \h 19

4.3.22      SWAT  PAGEREF _Toc299538729 \h 19

4.3.23      Bomb Technicians  PAGEREF _Toc299538730 \h 20

4.3.24      Mounted Patrol PAGEREF _Toc299538731 \h 20

4.3.25      APEX  PAGEREF _Toc299538732 \h 20

4.3.26      Warrant Uniform   PAGEREF _Toc299538733 \h 20

4.3.27      Bike Patrol PAGEREF _Toc299538734 \h 20

4.3.28      Helicopter Unit PAGEREF _Toc299538735 \h 21

4.3.29      SOS Motors  PAGEREF _Toc299538736 \h 21

 

4.3.30      Auto Theft Task Force  PAGEREF _Toc299538737 \h 21

4.3.31      Discretionary Units Assigned to the Zones  PAGEREF _Toc299538738 \h 21

4.3.32      Training Section  PAGEREF _Toc299538739 \h 22

4.3.33      Property Control PAGEREF _Toc299538740 \h 22

4.3.34      Police Athletic League  PAGEREF _Toc299538741 \h 22

4.3.35      Honor Guard  PAGEREF _Toc299538742 \h 22

4.3.36      Chaplains  PAGEREF _Toc299538743 \h 22

4.3.37      Temporary Assignments  PAGEREF _Toc299538744 \h 23

4.3.38      Mobile Field Force  PAGEREF _Toc299538745 \h 23

4.3.39      Sworn Employees in Civilian Clothes  PAGEREF _Toc299538746 \h 23

4.4           Non-sworn Employees  PAGEREF _Toc299538747 \h 24

4.4.2        Recruits  PAGEREF _Toc299538748 \h 24

4.4.3        Traffic Control Inspectors  PAGEREF _Toc299538749 \h 24

4.4.4        Crime Prevention Inspectors  PAGEREF _Toc299538750 \h 25

4.4.5        Property Management Technicians  PAGEREF _Toc299538751 \h 26

4.4.6        Vehicles for Hire Enforcement Officers  PAGEREF _Toc299538752 \h 26

4.4.7        Inventory System Specialists  PAGEREF _Toc299538753 \h 26

4.4.8        Crime Scene Technicians  PAGEREF _Toc299538754 \h 27

4.4.9        Non Uniformed Civilian Employees  PAGEREF _Toc299538755 \h 27

5.          DEFINITIONS  PAGEREF _Toc299538756 \h 28

6.          CANCELLATIONS  PAGEREF _Toc299538757 \h 29

7.          REFERENCES  PAGEREF _Toc299538758 \h 29

 

1.               PURPOSE

 

To establish guidelines governing the uniform and equipment authorized for wear by all Atlanta Police Department employees.  (CALEA 5th ed. Standard 26.1.1)

 

2.               POLICY

 

Employees who are on duty or representing the Department in an official capacity shall wear only those articles of uniform, clothing, equipment, and accessories that are authorized by the Department.

 

3.               RESPONSIBILITIES

 

3.1              All supervisors shall ensure that employees comply with the requirements of this directive. Any supervisor observing a uniform violation on any employee shall initiate immediate corrective action.

 

3.2              All employees shall abide by the requirements of this directive, shall maintain and care for all uniforms and equipment, and shall ensure that unauthorized persons are not allowed access to or use of Atlanta Police uniforms and equipment.

 

4.               ACTION

 

4.1        General

 

4.1.1           Employees shall be clean and neatly groomed, to present a professional image, to instill a degree of personal discipline among employees, to assure easy recognition of officers in the field, and to ensure that clothing and appearance shall not deter from officer safety or job performance.

 

4.1.2           Employees shall only wear the uniform prescribed for their rank and/or assignment.

 

4.1.3           Employees shall only wear Department uniforms under the following conditions: while on duty; during job-related court appearances; while working approved extra jobs; while attending or participating in Department approved activities; or while traveling to or from any of the aforementioned activities.

 

4.1.4           Employees shall not allow any person not otherwise authorized to use, wear, or possess any Department-issued or approved uniforms or equipment.

 

4.1.5           Only uniforms and equipment issued by the Department, matching Department standards, or approved by the Department, shall be worn as part of or with the uniform.  (CALEA 5th ed. Standard 41.3.4)

 

4.1.6           Uniforms and equipment shall fit properly; be clean, neatly pressed or polished as appropriate and applicable, well maintained, and in good repair.

 

4.1.7           Employees may carry a briefcase, attaché case or a similar bag to facilitate the carrying of police-related equipment. Cases shall be professional in appearance and must not detract from the uniform. Handbags and purses shall not be carried while in uniform.

 

4.1.8           Employees appearing in court shall wear the required uniform or conform to the dress code requirements for business professional attire. Employees in plainclothes or undercover assignments may deviate from this requirement as necessary and appropriate.

 

4.1.9           The Chief of Police or his or her designee may grant exceptions to dress code requirements. Requests shall be forwarded in writing through the employee’s chain of command to the Chief of Police.

 

4.1.10         Employees shall not use any tobacco or tobacco products while interacting with or in the view of the general public, per APD.SOP.2011 Section 4.2.

 

4.2              General Appearance

 

4.2.1           Tattoos and Brands

 

1.    Employees on duty are prohibited from exposing tattoos or brands anywhere on the body that are obscene, inappropriate for law enforcement, indecent, or that advocate sexual, racial, or religious discrimination.

 

2.    Excessive tattoos or brands shall not be exposed or visible through the clothing while on duty with the exception of officers in undercover assignments. “Excessive” is defined as any tattoo or brand that exceeds one third of the exposed body part and those that are above the collarbone and visible when wearing open collar clothing.

 

4.2.2            Body Piercing

 

Employees are prohibited from attaching, affixing, or displaying objects, articles, jewelry or ornamentation on or through the ear, nose, tongue, or any other exposed body part, including that which is visible through clothing, while on duty. Exceptions to this policy are limited to the following:

 

1.    Uniformed female employees may wear earrings through the ears that present a professional image and do not constitute a potential safety hazard.  Female employees are authorized a single piercing in each ear lobe. Female employees are authorized to wear one small (approx. 6 mm or ¼ inch), spherical, conservative, diamond, gold, white pearl, or silver pierced or clip earring per ear. Earrings must be matching and cannot extend below the earlobe.

 

2.    Non-uniformed female employees may wear earrings that are consistent with a professional image.

 

3.    Non-uniformed male employees working undercover assignments may wear earrings through the ears upon approval of the section commander.  At no other time may male employees wear earrings, whether in a non-uniformed or uniformed assignment.

 

4.2.3           Hair

 

1.    Hair shall at all times be clean, neatly combed, and trimmed to present a neat appearance. If employees choose to color their hair, natural colors shall be used. Hair coloring in hues not found in the natural spectrum of human hair is prohibited.  Dreadlocks, twists and braids shall conform to uniform standards and shall be kept clean, neat and off the collar while in uniform. Beaded braids are expressly prohibited.

 

2.    All male employees’ hair shall be no longer than the top of the shirt collar at the back of the neck and the top of the ear on the sides when the employee is standing with head in a normal posture. Hair shall not extend more than two inches from the scalp, regardless of length.

 

3.    Uniformed female employee’s hair shall not extend beyond an invisible line drawn parallel to the ground at the bottom of the shirt collar at the back of the neck. Hair shall not extend three inches from the scalp, regardless of length. Uniformed female employees who wish to have their hair longer shall secure their hair in a safe and neat manner above the collar in a conservative fashion. Plain and conservative pins, combs, headbands, elastic bands, and barrettes may be used to keep hair in place. Bangs shall not extend lower than the top of the eyebrow and should not be visible when wearing headgear.

 

4.    Non-uniformed female employees shall maintain their hair to present a neat appearance consistent with their job assignment. When appropriate, hair standards for uniformed female officers should be utilized.

 

5.    Wigs and hairpieces may be worn provided they comply with the aforementioned standards.

 

6.    Employees in plainclothes or undercover assignments may deviate from this requirement as necessary and appropriate upon approval of the section commander.

 

4.2.4            Facial Hair

 

1.    Employees shall be clean-shaven. Facial hair is not permitted, with the exception of mustaches and sideburns. Sworn employees in undercover assignments may deviate as necessary and appropriate upon approval of their section commander.

 

2.    Mustaches shall be neatly trimmed and may not extend below the corner of the mouth, nor may they obscure the upper lip or extend to the side more than one half inch beyond the corners of the mouth.

 

3.    Sideburns shall be no more than one inch wide, shall not extend below the bottom of the earlobes, and shall be neatly trimmed

 

4.    Employees in undercover assignments may deviate upon approval of their section or unit commander.

 

4.2.5            Make-up

 

Female employees may wear make-up, but it must be applied conservatively, in good taste, and complement the uniform. Lipstick, if worn, shall be the same general color as the natural color of the lips.

 

4.2.6            Fingernails

 

Female employees may wear nail polish that is conservative, a single color, and in good taste. Ornamentation on fingernails is prohibited. Male employees shall not wear colored nail polish. Fingernails must not exceed a nail length of ¼ inch as measured from the tip of the finger. Artificial or press-on nails must meet the same requirements.

 

4.2.7            Jewelry

 

1.    Uniformed employees may wear personal jewelry, which shall be generally limited to wristwatches, wedding bands, or other simple rings. Chokers, brooches, multiple earrings, or other items that detract from the uniform or constitute a potential safety hazard are specifically prohibited.

 

2.    Employees may wear one ring on each hand, and one wristwatch or bracelet on each wrist. Wedding sets worn on the same finger shall count as one ring.

 

3.    Necklaces that do not present a potential safety hazard and that can be concealed under the uniform may be worn.

 

4.    Non-uniformed employees may wear jewelry that is conservative and professional in nature and does not constitute a potential safety hazard.

 

4.2.8            Eyeglasses and Sunglasses

 

1.    Eyeglasses and sunglasses shall be conservative in nature. In all cases, eyeglasses and sunglasses, specifically mirrored sunglasses, which detract from the professional appearance of an officer, are prohibited.

 

4.2.9            General Uniform Guidelines

 

1.    Sworn employees shall wear their uniforms, whether Class A, Class B or Class C with the shirt tucked into the trousers so that the shirt edge is aligned with the front fly opening, and the outside edge of the exposed belt buckle forms a straight "gig line." 
 

4.3              Sworn Employees

 

4.3.1           Class A Uniform for the Rank of Captain and Above

 

1.    The formal dress uniform for employees at the rank of captain and above and for chaplains shall be worn at funerals, awards presentations, banquets, or any other appropriate occasions as determined by the Chief of Police, as outlined below:

 

a.     The formal dress uniform coat for captain and above shall be navy blue with gold buttons. The breast badge shall be worn on the left breast side of the coat and the Atlanta Police patch shall be worn on each shoulder. The appropriate rank insignias shall be worn on both shoulders. When appropriate, gold stripes shall be worn on the sleeves according to rank: Majors shall have one gold braid stripe; Deputy Chiefs shall have two gold braid stripes; the Assistant Chief of Police shall have three gold braid stripes; and the Chief of Police shall have four gold braid stripes. The employee nameplate shall be worn on the right pocket flap; horizontal, centered and aligned with the bottom stitch line of the breast pocket flap. No other insignia or ornamentation is allowed on the coat, as indicated below:

 

Chief of Police George N. Turner

 

b.    The Class A uniform includes the white long sleeve shirt.  The long sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar fastened and a navy blue tie.  All buttons shall be fastened at all times.  The Atlanta Police Department patch shall be on both shoulders.  Shirtsleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

c.    The Class A trousers shall be navy blue.

 

d.    The uniform hat shall be worn with the formal dress uniform when outdoors.

 

e.    The high-rise type holster and firearm may be worn instead of the equipment belt. One magazine case may be worn on the belt opposite the holster. The weapon must not be externally visible.

 

f.     The high gloss shoes shall be worn with the formal dress uniform.

 

4.3.2         Class A Uniform for the Rank of Lieutenant and Below

 

1.    The uniform shirt for employees at the rank of lieutenant and below shall be the navy blue long sleeve shirt.  The long sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar fastened and a navy blue tie.  All buttons shall be fastened at all times.  The Atlanta Police Department patch shall be on both shoulders.  Shirt sleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

2.    The uniform trousers for all employees shall be navy blue. The trouser legs shall be tailored so as to allow the bottom of the trouser legs to touch the top of the shoes when the employee is standing. Trouser legs shall be a straight military cut, without cuffs. Trousers for supervisors shall have a black stripe, beginning at the waistband, on the outside seam.

 

3.    All employees shall wear the Class A uniform to any occasions where formal attire is appropriate (ex. funerals, award presentations, banquets, etc).  The Class A uniform shall include the formal dress uniform coat, the navy blue officer’s style hat and a pair of white gloves.  A black band shall be worn around the employee’s badge for funerals.

 

a.    The formal dress uniform coat for employees below the rank of sergeant shall be navy blue with silver buttons.  The formal dress uniform coat for employees at or above the rank of sergeant shall be navy blue with gold buttons.  The breast badge shall be worn on the left breast side of the coat and the Atlanta Police patch shall be worn on each shoulder.  The appropriate rank insignias shall be worn on both shoulders.  The employee nameplate shall be worn on the right breast pocket flap; horizontal, centered and aligned with the bottom stitch line of the breast pocket flap.  No other insignia or ornamentation is allowed on the coat.

 

b.    The Class A uniform for employees below the rank of captain includes a navy blue dress shirt and navy blue tie.

 

c.    The Class A trouser for employees below the rank of captain shall be navy blue.

 

d.    The uniform hat for employees below the rank of captain shall be worn with the Class A uniform when outdoors.

 

e.    The high-rise type holster and firearm for employees below the rank of captain may be worn instead of the equipment belt.  One magazine case may be worn on the belt opposite the holster.  The weapon must not be externally visible.

 

f.     The high gloss shoes for employees below the rank of captain shall be worn with the     Class A uniform.

  

4.3.3         Class B Uniform

 

1.     The uniform shirt for employees below the rank of captain shall be the navy blue short sleeve or long sleeve shirt. The short sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar button unfastened. The long sleeve shirt shall be worn either with the collar button fastened and a navy blue tie, or with the collar button unfastened and a turtle neck or dickey. All buttons, with the exception of the collar button, shall be Atlanta Police metal buttons and fastened at all times. The Atlanta Police Department patch shall be on both shoulders. Shirtsleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.    The uniform shirt for employees at the rank of Captain and above shall be the white short sleeve or long sleeve shirt. The short sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar button unfastened. The long sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar buttoned and a navy blue tie. The Atlanta Police Department patch shall be on both shoulders. Shirtsleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

3.    The uniform trousers for all employees shall be navy blue. The trouser legs shall be tailored so as to allow the bottom of the trouser legs to touch the top of the shoes when the employee is standing. Trouser legs shall be a straight military cut, without cuffs. Trousers for supervisors shall have a black braid stripe, beginning at the waistband, on the outside seam.

 

4.3.4         Class C Uniform

 

1.     Employees at or below the rank of lieutenant may also wear the Class C navy blue short sleeve or long sleeve shirt with the Class C navy blue cargo trousers.  The short sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar button unfastened.  The long sleeve shirt shall be worn with the collar button unfastened and a turtle neck or dickey.  All other buttons shall be black in color and fastened at all times.  The Atlanta Police Department patch shall be on both shoulders, as indicated below:

 

http://www.uniformswarehouse.com/catalog/PRS06-T.jpg

 

 

   

2.     Employees at or below the rank of lieutenant may also wear the Class C navy blue cargo trousers.  The trouser legs shall be tailored so as to allow the bottom of the trousers legs to touch the top of the shoes when the employee is standing.  The black braid strip is not required on the supervisor’s trouser.  The cargo trouser legs shall have a pocket on each leg and an additional pocket attached to the outer pocket, as indicated below:

 

 

 

5.11 Tactical - P/R B-Class Uniform Pants

 

 

 

4.3.5         Badges

 

1.    The breast badge shall be worn on the left side of the uniform shirt, attached to the badge holder, so as to be visible at all times.

 

2.    The hat badge shall be worn on the front of the uniform hat and the fur trooper hat. The hat badge shall not be worn on any other headgear.

 

3.    Embroidered cloth badges may be worn in lieu of the metal badge on sweaters, jackets, and rain gear.

 

4.    Badges for officers and senior police officers shall be silver in color. Badges for non-uniformed investigators shall be gold in color; badges for uniformed investigators shall be silver in color. Badges for chaplains and for employees holding the rank of sergeant and above shall be gold in color.

 

5.    A mourning band may cover the breast badge during the mourning period following the line of duty death of an employee of any law enforcement agency in the metropolitan Atlanta area. The mourning band shall be black or black with a blue stripe in the center, ¾ inch in width, worn horizontally across the entire width of the badge. The mourning band shall be a cloth or elastic material, but may be black vinyl tape as necessary or appropriate.  The mourning period is from the time of death until the end of the day on the day of interment.

  

4.3.6         Headgear

 

1.    The uniform hat for the Class A uniform shall be the navy blue officer’s style hat. The hat shall be worn in a military fashion with the visor being two fingers’ width above the nose. The issued hat badge shall be worn on the front.

 

2.    Employees below the rank of sergeant shall wear a silver strap across the front and above the visor, held in place by two silver Atlanta Police buttons. Chaplains and employees holding the rank of sergeant and above shall wear a gold strap across the front and above the visor, held in place by two gold Atlanta Police buttons.

 

3.    Employees holding the rank of Major and above shall have command braids on the bill of the hat.

 

4.    All employees assigned to ride two wheeled vehicles shall wear helmets, either the Department-approved motorcycle helmet for employees on motorcycles or the Department-approved bicycle helmet for employees on bicycles. Employees assigned to SOS/Motors shall wear the metal motorcycle badges affixed to the front of the helmet.

 

5.    The navy blue fur trooper cap may be worn as necessary and appropriate with the Class B uniform. The hat badge shall be attached to the visor on the front of the cap. The trooper cap may be worn with the earflaps up or down, as weather dictates.

 

6.    The Department-approved black knit “watch cap” may be worn by Department personnel that are dressed in the Class B uniform or by those that are assigned to Discretionary Units. Only the words “ATLANTA POLICE” shall be visible on the cap.  For employees below the rank of Sergeant, the letters must be silver embroidery.  For employees ranked Sergeant or above, the letters must be gold embroidery. Both, the silver and/or gold embroidered black knit “watch caps” shall be worn with the words “ATLANTA POLICE” on the front side of the cap, as indicated below:

 

                  http://www.customink.com/designs/proofs/15490215-1/front.jpg              http://www.customink.com/designs/proofs/15490088-1/front.jpg

                  Silver Embroidery           Gold Embroidery

      

7.    SWAT, APEX, Helicopter and Bike Patrol employees may wear BDU utility caps while dressed in tactical uniform or flight suits. Bike Patrol shall only wear the BDU utility caps when not riding the bicycle.  BDU utility caps shall be black in color and have the respective unit name embroidered on the front. SWAT and Helicopters shall have silver embroidery and APEX shall have red embroidery.

 

8.    All employees assigned to the Mounted Patrol Unit shall wear the Department-approved riding helmet.

 

9.    Sworn employees in uniform are required to wear their headgear during roll call inspection; while on a foot beat; while directing traffic; during a funeral or ceremony; or when directed by a supervisor to do so. The wearing of headgear shall be optional any other time.

 

10.  The wearing of “baseball caps”, by sworn employees except for SOS Motors officers is expressly forbidden.

 

4.3.7         Name Plate

 

1.    The nameplate shall be worn on the right pocket flap with the top edge aligned with the bottom stitch line of the pocket flap and centered above the metal button on the pocket.

 

2.    The nameplate shall be 2 ½ inches long and 9/16 inches wide with black ¼ inch letters. Nameplates shall have the first and last name of the officer, the first initial and last name, or the first and middle initials and last name. Employees below the rank of sergeant shall wear a silver nameplate. Employees who hold the rank of sergeant or above shall wear a gold nameplate.

 

 

4.3.8         Rank Insignia

 

1.    Officers, SPO’s and investigators shall wear a silver badge, silver metal buttons on the uniform shirt, and silver buttons on leather gear.

 

2.    Sergeants shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with a gold sergeant’s chevron on each shoulder, and gold buttons on leather gear.

 

3.    Lieutenants shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with one gold bar on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

4.    Captains shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with two gold bars on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

5.    Majors shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with one gold oak leaf on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

6.    Deputy Chiefs shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with two gold stars on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

7.    The Assistant Chief of Police shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with three gold stars on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

8.    The Chief of Police shall wear a gold badge, gold buttons on the uniform shirt, an epaulet with four gold stars on each shoulder, and gold buttons on the leather gear.

 

4.3.9         Buttons

 

Employees shall wear the metal Atlanta Police buttons on the uniform shirt in all locations where buttons are visible, not including the Class C navy blue short sleeve shirt.

 

4.3.10        Collar Insignias

 

1.    Employees shall wear the APD collar insignia on the right side of the collar when viewed from the front, and the command insignia on the left side collar when viewed from the front of the uniform shirt.  Employees assigned to the Support Services Division, Community Service Division or Criminal Investigations Division shall wear command insignia representing their division assignment.  Employees assigned to the Field Operations Division shall wear command insignia identifying their zone or section.  Employees who are not assigned to the aforementioned divisions shall wear command insignia representing their section.

 

2.    The APD collar insignias shall be silver in color for employees under the rank of sergeant and gold for employees who hold the rank of sergeant or above.

 

3.    The Training Unit commander or his or her designee is responsible for the initial issuance of APD and SSD collar insignia to new officers in field training. Upon completion of field training, the Training Unit commander shall collect the SSD command insignias and provide each officer with the command insignia identifying their zone or section of assignment.

 

4.    The Atlanta Retired Police Reserve (ARPR) coordinator shall issue OCOP insignia to reserve officers.

 

5.    For the short sleeve shirt, the collar insignia is worn centered on the collar with the centerline of the insignia bisecting the point of the collar. The insignia forms the longest side of the triangle formed by both edges of the collar and the insignia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

6.    For the long sleeve shirt, the insignia is worn parallel to the outermost edge of the collar, 3/8” from the outermost edge and 1” from the tip of the collar.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.3.11        Shirt Accessories

 

1.    Employees are allowed to wear two accessories on the uniform shirt and one accessory on the tie.

 

2.    The City-issued service pin may be worn on the right shirt pocket flap to the left of the nameplate or on the tie.

 

3.    The American flag pin may be worn on the right shirt pocket flap to the right of the nameplate. The American flag pin cannot exceed 5/8 inch by ½ inch in size.  An American flag ribbon bar may be worn centered above the nameplate.

 

4.    Employees with five or more years of service may wear the City-issued service entry nameplate. The City-issued service entry nameplate shall be silver in color for employees under the rank of sergeant and gold for employees who hold the rank of sergeant or above. Letters shall be black in color and state “serving since” followed by the year the employee began service with the Department.

 

5.    The marksmanship award may be worn centered above the nameplate during the year after the employee qualified as expert.

 

  

 

 

6.    Award ribbon bars may be worn above the nameplate. Multiple ribbon bars may be worn in the same manner and shall count as one accessory. Medals issued by the Department may be worn instead of ribbon bars at formal occasions.  If a single award ribbon is displayed, it shall be worn immediately above the top of the shirt pocket flap, centered on the flap and above the marksmanship award (if applicable). If more than one award ribbon is authorized, all award ribbons shall be aligned on the same horizontal plane and centered on the pocket flap.  Award ribbons shall not extend beyond the edges of the pocket flap.

 

 

 

 

 

7.    The Department-issued Olympic pin may be worn above the nameplate by those employees who worked for the Department between July 9, 1996 and August 5, 1996.  When worn, this device shall be centered on the pocket above any award ribbons or marksmanship awards.

 

8.    The Atlanta Police patch pin or the City Seal tie clasp may be worn with the navy blue tie.

 

9.    Pins or insignia depicting membership in a law enforcement-related association, organization, union, or fraternity may be worn on the left breast pocket flap or on the navy blue tie.

 

10.  Pins or insignia that designate completion of a law enforcement related educational or training course may be worn above the name plate and above award ribbons centered on the pocket flap.

 

11.  Pins or insignia that designate military service may be worn on the left breast pocket flap or on the navy blue tie.

 

12.  Employees assigned to the Helicopter Unit may wear metal aviator wings. Unadorned wings are worn by Tactical Flight Officers, wings with a star directly above the shield shall be worn by PIC’s, and the Unit CFI’s shall wear wings with a star and wreath.  The aviator’s wings device shall be worn centered on the centerline of the pocket flap and above award ribbons.

 

13.  Employees assigned to the Motors Unit may wear the large winged wheel pin on the shirt above the right breast pocket, and may continue to do so after the employee has been reassigned due to transfer and/or promotion. Employees assigned to zone level mini-motors may wear the small winged wheel pin on the shirt above the right breast pocket.

 

14.  Employees cannot wear the following items on their uniforms or when representing the Department:

 

a.    Campaign or political buttons or items depicting political preference or philosophy;

 

b.    Organizational pins or insignia depicting membership, affiliation, or support for any non-law enforcement related associations, organizations, unions, or fraternities; or

 

c.    Ornamentation that has not received prior approval of the Chief of Police.

 

4.3.12        Specialized Assignment Patches

 

1.    Employees assigned as canine handlers shall wear a K-9 rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

2.    Employees assigned to SWAT shall wear a SWAT rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

3.    Employees assigned to a bomb squad shall wear a Bomb Squad rocker beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater and jacket.

 

4.    Employees assigned to SOS Motors shall wear a “Winged Wheel” patch on the right sleeve below the Department patch.

 

5.    Employees assigned to SOS Mounted Patrol shall wear a Mounted Patrol rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater and jacket.

 

6.    Employees assigned to the Auto Theft Task Force shall wear an Auto Theft Task Force rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

7.    Employees assigned to APEX shall wear a APEX rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

8.    Employees assigned to the DUI Task Force shall wear a DUI rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

9.    Employees assigned to Hit and Run shall wear a Hit and Run rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

10.  Employees assigned to the Helicopter Unit shall wear the aviation patch on the right chest of the flight suit.

 

11.  Employees who are appointed as investigators or senior police officers shall wear one single silver chevron ½ inch below the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.  The investigator patch shall have “investigator” embroidered below the chevron.

 

12.  Employees who are certified and appointed as Field Training Officers shall wear a Field Training Officer rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

13.  Employees that are chaplains may wear a Chaplain rocker patch above the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder.

 

14.  Employees assigned to the Community Oriented Policing Section (COPS) shall wear a COPS rocker patch beneath the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder of their uniform shirt, sweater, and jacket.

 

15.  Employees who are members of the Honor Guard in good standing may wear an Honor Guard rocker patch above the Atlanta Police Department patch on each shoulder or an Honor Guard pin centered above the nameplate.

 

16.  Employees may wear one service stripe for every five years of service with the Department. Service stripes shall be worn diagonally toward the body, on the left sleeve, and two inches above the cuff on the long sleeve uniform shirt and the uniform jacket. Service stripes shall be one inch in length and silver for employees under the rank of sergeant and gold for employees who hold the rank of sergeant or higher.

 

4.3.13        Shoes and Boots

 

1.    Employees in uniform shall wear black, plain, lace-up shoes or boots, of either full-grain leather or high gloss. Shoes and boots shall be clean, in good repair, and polished. Heel and sole cannot exceed 1½ inches in height.

 

2.    Employees who are assigned to Motorcycles and Mounted Patrol may wear riding boots when necessary and appropriate.

 

3.    All shoes and boots must match the finish of the leather gear. (For example:  High gloss shoes must be worn with the high gloss leather gear and full-grain leather shoes must be worn with full-grain leather gear).

 

4.3.14        Undergarments

 

1.    Employees shall wear black or navy blue socks. Employees wearing full boots (typically with an upper of at least 8 inches or extending to mid-calf) may wear white socks, provided the socks are not visible under the uniform trousers.

 

2.    Undershirts, if visible at the neck, must be solid black in color, well fitting, and in good repair. Undershirts shall not extend beyond the sleeve of the uniform shirt.

 

3.    Turtlenecks or dickeys may be worn with the long sleeve uniform shirt. The turtleneck or dickey, where visible, must be solid black in color, well fitting, and in good repair.  The letters “APD” may be monogrammed if desired.

 

4.3.15        Sweater

 

1.    Employees may wear the black wool military type v-neck sweater with the long sleeve shirt with the collar button fastened and a navy blue tie, or with the collar button unfastened and a turtle neck or dickey. The Atlanta Police Department patch must be on both shoulders of the sweater.

 

2.    The metal breast badge or an embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side and the metal nameplate or embroidered name patch shall be worn on the right breast side. 

 

3.    The appropriate rank epaulet shall be worn on the shoulders of the sweater.

 

4.3.16        Jacket

 

1.    All employees may wear the navy blue waist length jacket or the black leather jacket.

 

2.    The navy blue waist length jacket shall have the Atlanta Police Department shoulder patches on both shoulders. The metal breast badge or an embroidered cloth badge shall be worn over the left breast side of the jacket. The nameplate or an embroidered patch shall be worn over the right breast side of the jacket.

 

3.    The black leather jacket shall be worn in the same manner as the navy blue waist length jacket and shall have pull down identification panels identifying the employee as an Atlanta Police officer on both the front and back of the jacket.

 

4.    Employees assigned to Helicopter, SWAT, or riding motorcycles or horses may wear the black leather motorcycle jacket or the flight jacket, to be worn in the same manner as the navy blue waist length jacket.

 

5.    A scarf may be worn with the jacket. The scarf shall be solid black or navy blue. It shall be worn around the neck, and the ends shall be tucked into the inside of the jacket.

 

6.    The appropriate rank epaulet shall be worn on the shoulders of the jacket.

 

4.3.17        Body Armor

                 (CALEA 5th ed. Standard 41.3.5)

 

1.    Uniformed sworn employees at the rank of sergeant and below and Vehicles for Hire Enforcement Officers must wear their body armor at all times when on duty or working an extra job except as provided in paragraph two. Department-issued or approved body armor is required equipment for uniformed employees, including those working extra jobs.

 

2.    Uniformed sworn employees and taxicab inspectors in non-law enforcement assignments, such as those assigned to office or administrative areas, are not required to wear their body armor unless they are;

 

a.    Performing a task that involves acting in a law enforcement capacity;

 

b.    Outside of their assigned office or administrative area; or

 

c.    Otherwise directed by a supervisor.

 

3.    Non-uniformed employees must wear their body armor under the following conditions:

 

a.    When executing a warrant or a tactical field operation;

 

b.    When engaged in any high risk situation; or

 

c.    When directed or ordered by a supervisor

 

4.    Employees who hold the rank of lieutenant and above shall wear their body armor at their own discretion, taking into account their own safety and the safety of others.

 

5.    Employees who are not required to wear their body armor shall have it readily available and accessible while on duty.

 

6.    Sworn employees in high-risk assignments shall wear tactical body armor when engaged in high risk or tactical operations, including but not limited to: barricaded gunman situations, warrant executions, and other tactical duties, etc. (CALEA 5th ed. Standard 41.3.6)

 

7.    Except in exigent circumstances, body armor shall not be worn as the outer garment. Tactical body armor is an exception.

 

8.    Damaged body armor must be turned in to the Property Control Unit for repair or replacement by the manufacturer. An incident report must be completed and accompany the damaged body armor. Employees shall not attempt to repair body armor themselves.

 

4.3.18        Equipment and Leather Gear

 

1.    All leather gear and equipment shall be considered part of the uniform and shall be worn whenever the uniform is worn except where other guidance is provided by this directive. All leather gear and equipment must be Department- issued or approved.

 

2.    All leather gear shall be smooth, black leather or black high gloss and shall be kept clean and well polished at all times. All leather gear must be of matching style and appearance. Buckles, snaps, and other metal parts of the leather equipment shall be silver for employees under the rank of sergeant and gold for employees who hold the rank of sergeant and above.

 

3.    Required equipment for employees below the rank of major includes: under belt, equipment belt, OC canister, OC carrying case, issued weapon, approved holster for issued weapon, expandable baton, expandable baton scabbard, handcuffs, handcuff case, flashlight, flashlight holder, radio, radio case, spare magazine and ammunition, double magazine case, belt keepers, and handcuff key.

 

4.    Required equipment for employees at the rank of major and above includes: under belt, issued weapon, and approved holster for issued weapon.

 

5.    Optional equipment includes: Department-approved secondary weapon, cellular telephone and carrying case, small flashlight and carrying case, gloves, pager, key holder, extra handcuffs and case, and any additional equipment approved by the section commander.

 

6.    The under belt shall be worn through the belt loops of the uniform trousers.

 

7.    The equipment belt shall be 2 ½ inches wide and of either smooth leather or high gloss finish. The equipment belt shall be worn over the under belt and secured in place by at least four and no more than six belt keepers attached to the under belt.

 

8.    The Department-issued or approved firearm shall be carried in a Department approved holster on the equipment belt. The firearm shall be clean, fully loaded, and in good operating order. The holster shall be worn over the trouser leg seam on the officer’s weapon side.

 

9.    The radio case shall be worn on the equipment belt on the employee’s reaction side and over the trouser leg seam.

 

10.  The expandable baton and scabbard shall be worn on the equipment belt on the weapon side to the rear of the holster. One belt keeper shall be worn between the scabbard and the holster.

 

11.  The OC canister and case shall be worn on the equipment belt on the employee’s weapon side forward of the holster.

 

12.  The Department issued flashlight and flashlight holder shall be worn on the equipment belt opposite the weapon side to the rear of the radio case.

 

13.  Mini flashlights may be carried on the equipment belt. Cases for the flashlight must be similar to the finish of the leather gear.

 

14.  The handcuffs shall be carried in a handcuff case on the equipment belt to the rear of either the radio or expandable baton. Employees may carry a second pair of handcuffs in either a handcuff case or secured by a belt keeper. Hinged handcuffs are prohibited. Handcuffs must be silver or grey in color.

 

15.  The magazine case shall be fully loaded and carried in a case on the equipment belt in front of the radio on the employee’s reaction side. Double magazine cases shall be worn. Employees shall carry two fully loaded spare ammunition magazines on their equipment belt.

 

16.  Cellular telephones and/or pagers may be carried on the equipment belt. Cellular phones and pagers must be conservative in color, and their cases, when applicable, must match the finish of the leather gear. Pagers and cell phones may not be attached to any other part of the uniform.

 

17.  Key rings and a key ring holder may be carried on the equipment belt.

 

4.3.19        Traffic Vest

                 (CALEA 5th ed. Standard 61.3.2g)

 

1.    The Department-issued, ANSI/ISEA 207-2006 compliant reflective traffic safety vest shall be worn by all employees while directing traffic, investigating traffic accidents, or working school crossings, whether on or off duty.

 

2.    Employees may wear the high visibility rain gear in lieu of the traffic safety vest when appropriate.

 

4.3.20        Rain Gear

 

1.    Employees may wear the Department-issued rain suit as necessary and appropriate. The rain suit, consisting of trousers and a jacket, shall be a high visibility color with silver reflective material along the seams and the words “Police” or “Atlanta Police” written on the back in silver reflective material.

 

2.    Employees may wear the calf-length Department-issued rain jacket in lieu of the rain suit provided it meets the same standards as above.

 

4.3.21        Gloves

 

1.    Employees may wear black leather or fabric gloves. Gloves must be a solid color, completely cover the front and back of the hand, and cover the fingers.

 

2.    Employees directing traffic, investigating accidents, or working as school crossing guards shall wear white or colored high visibility gloves. Gloves must completely cover the hand, both front and back, and cover the fingers.

 

3.    White gloves shall be worn when attending funerals and other formal occasions as specified by the Chief of Police.

 

4.3.22        SWAT

 

Employees assigned to SWAT may wear an olive drab green tactical uniform. The tactical uniform shall consist of a Nomex Y.A.G.C. 91-03 flight suit with a subdued black and gray Atlanta Police patch and SWAT rocker on each shoulder, and an embroidered cloth badge on the left breast.  Nameplate, badge, and rank insignia shall be worn in the same manner as on the uniform jacket. The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing. The SOS or SWAT commander may authorize other uniforms based on the particular assignment or detail.

 

4.3.23        Bomb Technicians

 

1.    Employees assigned to the Airport or SWAT Bomb Squad may wear an olive drab green tactical uniform. The tactical uniform shall consist of a Nomex Y.A.G.C. 91-03 flight suit with a subdued black and gray Atlanta Police patch, a Bomb Squad rocker on each shoulder, and an embroidered cloth badge on the left breast.  Employees may also wear the Hazardous Devices School pin or patch.  Nameplate, badge, and rank insignia shall be worn in the same manner as on the uniform jacket. The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing. The SOS commander, SWAT commander, or Airport commander may authorize other uniforms for employees under their command based on the particular assignment or detail.

 

2.    K-9 handlers assigned to the Bomb Squad may wear an olive drab tactical uniform, consisting of olive drab trousers and an olive drab fatigue shirt. The fatigue shirt shall have an Atlanta Police patch a Bomb Squad rocker on each shoulder, an embroidered cloth badge patch on the left breast pocket, and an embroidered cloth nameplate on the right breast pocket. K-9 handlers may wear the Explosive K-9 Detection pin or patch.  The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing.

 

4.3.24        Mounted Patrol

 

Employees assigned to Mounted Patrol shall wear the Department approved riding britches with the Class B uniform shirt and riding boots when on horseback.  Employees, when not on horseback, shall wear the Class B Uniform as described in Section 4.3.3

 

4.3.25        APEX

 

Employees assigned to APEX, including K-9 handlers, shall wear a tactical uniform, consisting of green trousers and a green combat shirt. The combat shirt shall have an Atlanta Police patch and APEX rocker on each shoulder, an embroidered cloth badge patch on the left breast side, and an embroidered cloth nameplate on the right breast side. The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing. The APEX Unit commander may authorize other uniforms based on the particular assignment or detail.

 

4.3.26        Warrant Uniform

 

Employees in plain-clothes assignments shall wear a warrant uniform when serving warrants.  The warrant uniform shall be a blue jumpsuit, jacket or the Department approved black mesh vest that clearly and readily identifies the employee as a police officer. The metal breast badge or an embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side and the metal nameplate or embroidered name patch shall be worn on the right breast side of the jumpsuit, jacket or the Department approved black mesh vest.

 

4.3.27        Bike Patrol

 

1.    Employees assigned to Bike Patrol shall wear Department-approved polo-style shirts with an Atlanta Police patch on each shoulder, an embroidered cloth badge on the left breast side, and an embroidered or metal name plate on the right breast side, Department approved bicycle pants or shorts, a Department approved bicycle jacket with “Police” or “Atlanta Police” lettering on the back, and may wear black fingerless bicycling gloves. The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing.  The Bike Patrol uniform is unique and mixing it with any part of the Class A, B, or C uniform is prohibited.

 

2.    Employees assigned to the Bike Patrol within the Division of Taxicabs and Vehicles for Hire shall wear the polo-style shirts with the unit patch on each shoulder and the words Vehicles for Hire Enforcement Officer shall be printed on the back, the embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side, and the embroidered or metal nameplate on the right breast side.

 

4.3.28        Helicopter Unit

 

Employees assigned to the Helicopter Unit shall wear a black Nomex flight suit with an Atlanta Police patch and unit rocker on each shoulder, an embroidered cloth badge on the left breast pocket, and an embroidered cloth nameplate on the right breast pocket. Employees shall use an approved leather shoulder holster with dual magazine pouch, Nomex flight gloves, a leather or Nomex flight jacket, an approved flight helmet, and hearing protection when in or around aircraft.

 

4.3.29        SOS Motors

 

Employees assigned to SOS Motors shall wear the Class B shirt with the Department-approved riding britches and Department approved riding boots.  Employees assigned to SOS Motors may wear, in cold weather, the Department-approved black thermal, open-faced pullover hood under their helmet and black thermal pants over their riding britches.  The pullover hood shall be removed when not physically riding the motorcycle.

 

4.3.30        Auto Theft Task Force

 

1.    Employees assigned to the Auto Theft Task Force (ATTF) shall wear black BDU pants and long or short sleeve t-shirts with the Department approved black mesh vest that clearly and readily identifies the employee as a police officer.  The metal breast badge or an embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side and the metal nameplate or embroidered name patch shall be worn on the right breast side of the Department approved black mesh vest.

 

2.    Employees assigned to the ATTF may wear coveralls at the discretion of the supervisor. The coveralls shall have an Atlanta Police patch and an ATTF rocker on each shoulder, an embroidered cloth badge patch on the left breast pocket, and an embroidered cloth nameplate on the right breast pocket.

 

4.3.31        Discretionary Units Assigned to the Zones

 

1.    Employees assigned to Field Investigation Teams (FIT) shall either wear plain clothes or shall wear black BDU pants and long or short sleeve t-shirts with the Department approved black mesh vest that clearly and readily identifies the employee as a police officer.  The metal breast badge or an embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side and the metal nameplate or embroidered name patch shall be worn on the right breast side of the Department approved black mesh vest.  Zone commanders may authorize other uniforms based on a particular assignment or detail.

 

2.    Units operating within the Zones as Crime Suppression Teams may wear Class B or C uniforms, the Bike Patrol uniformed described in Section 4.3.27 or a blue jumpsuit with Police or Atlanta Police reflective lettering on the back so as to clearly identify them as police officers.  The Atlanta Police patches shall be worn on each shoulder.  The embroidered cloth badge shall be worn on the left breast side and their name and rank on the right breast side.  The equipment belt and gear shall be black nylon webbing.  Zone commanders may authorize other uniforms based on a particular assignment or detail.

 

4.3.32        Training Section

 

Employees assigned to the Training Section shall wear the Departmental Class B Uniform. The Training Section commander may authorize other uniforms based upon the particular assignment or detail. The standard deviation from Class B uniform shall be khaki pants and a Department-approved polo-style shirt with an embroidered Atlanta Police patch on the left breast side and their name and rank on the right breast side.

 

4.3.33        Property Control

 

Sworn employees assigned to Property Control may wear a black polo style collared shirt, either short or long sleeved, with the Atlanta Police Department seal on the left breast side and their name and rank embroidered on the right breast side, black or gray tactical style trousers with a black leather belt, and a black coaching style jacket. Employees may also wear the navy blue coveralls with Atlanta Police patches on each shoulder and the cloth embroidered badge on the left breast side and their name and rank embroidered on the right breast side. Employees may wear an equipment belt upon approval of the unit commander. The Property Control Unit commander may authorize other uniforms based on the particular assignment or detail.

 

4.3.34        Police Athletic League

 

Employees assigned to the Police Athletic League, in addition to Department-approved wear, may wear Department-approved polo shirt with their name and rank embroidered on the right breast side and khaki shorts during the summer months.

 

4.3.35        Honor Guard

 

1.    Employees in the Honor Guard may wear the Honor Guard uniform while attending Honor Guard functions and while performing Honor Guard duties. The SOS commander shall determine the Honor Guard uniform.

 

4.3.36        Chaplains

 

The Class A Uniform for chaplains shall be consistent with the Class A Uniform as prescribed in section 4.3.1 paragraphs 2 and 3.  The Class A uniform shall be consistent with the uniform described in section 4.3.1 with the following exceptions:

 

1.    The chaplain’s insignia shall be worn on both shoulders.

 

2.    A white stripe shall be worn on the both sleeves.

 

4.3.37        Temporary Assignments

 

Sworn employees assigned to specialized and temporary assignments shall wear the uniform as described by their section commander that best suits the function/duty.

 

4.3.38        Mobile Field Force

 

Employees assigned to the Mobile Field Force shall wear black tactical style pants, a Department approved long sleeve polo style shirt, with markings that readily identify them as police officers, their name and rank embroidered on the right breast side, and required tactical gear.

 

4.3.39        Sworn Employees in Civilian Clothes

 

1.    While representing the Department in civilian clothes, employees shall dress in a conservative fashion that would be acceptable in any office, business, or professional environment. Division, section, or unit commanders shall determine appropriate uniform or dress.  Appropriate dress, other than Class B or C Uniform, is defined as a business suit or trousers with a sport jacket, a collared dress shirt and tie for male employees, and suits, dresses or coordinated pants, skirts or skirt outfits for female employees.  Shoes must coordinate with clothing and not exceed 1½ inches in height for male employees or 2 ½ inches in height for female employees.  Shoes must be clean and polished.

 

2.    Sworn employees assigned to technical, administrative or support duties shall wear Department-approved khaki pants, with a black polo-style shirt with the Atlanta Police patch and their work assignment embroidered on the left breast and their name and rank embroidered on the right breast, and (as weather indicates) a black windbreaker style jacket with the same embroidery requirements as the polo-style shirt, if not in uniform.

 

3.    Section commanders have the discretion to determine which administrative attire, described in this section, best serves the needs of the section.

 

4.    Employees are to carry required equipment.  Required equipment includes: Department issued or approved firearm, issued badge, and identification card. The employees’ radio and handcuffs should be readily available. Employees in undercover assignments may deviate as required or necessary due to the nature of their assignment.

 

5.    Sworn employees in administrative, technical or support positions who desire to wear their Class B or C Uniforms may wear a Department-approved holster assembly without the duty belt when there is no anticipated law enforcement action.  The duty belt shall be readily accessible at all times should the employee leave the office or building and direct contact with the public is likely.  The holster assembly shall be either plain leather or high gloss depending upon the style of the under belt.

 

6.    The following guidelines provide examples of unacceptable attire, excluding employees in undercover assignments, for any workday:

 

a.    Any item that is patched, torn, or has holes,

 

b.    Tight fitting clothing, including garments made with stretchy, see-though, or sheer material,

 

c.    Leather or simulated leather pants, skirts or dresses,

 

d.    Clothing with offensive terminology or graphics, or lettering larger than pocket or sleeve logos,

 

e.    Provocative or revealing clothing, such as spaghetti strap dresses, plunging necklines, strapless and/or backless dresses, halter tops, or midriff tops,

 

f.     Dresses, skirts, or shorts that are excessively short or have slits that are mid-thigh;

 

g.    Bib overalls,

 

h.    flip-flops or other beach style sandals, and  bedroom-style slippers,

 

i.     Novelty buttons,

 

j.     Trousers with pockets sewn to the main body of the fabric, other than section approved tactical uniform trousers,

 

k.    Athletic shoes; and

 

l.     Jeans

 

7.    Employees in plainclothes assignments may deviate from this dress code as necessary and appropriate due to the nature of their assignment. The section commander within that employee’s chain of command is responsible for determining acceptable deviations and approving and documenting the same.

 

4.4            Non-sworn Employees

 

4.4.1         Non-sworn employees are expressly prohibited from wearing any item of clothing or apparel that would identify them as police officers. This includes, but is not limited to, any article of clothing or apparel that is worn exclusively by sworn employees, Atlanta Police shoulder patches, metal APD buttons, embroidered cloth or metal breast badges, jackets, etc.

 

4.4.2         Recruits

 

1.    Police recruits shall wear the Class B Uniform as described in Section 4.3.2 of this document except that the uniform shirt shall be worn without shoulder patches or metal buttons. The nameplate shall be worn per Section 4.3.7 of this document.  Recruits shall wear black high gloss shoes and black or navy blue socks.  The Training Section commander may authorize deviations as appropriate and necessary.

 

2.    Lateral Entry Police Academy candidates shall wear a Department approved polo style shirt with an embroidered Atlanta Police Department logo on the left breast and navy blue trousers.

 

4.4.3         Traffic Control Inspectors

 

1.    Traffic control inspectors shall wear a light blue short sleeve shirt with the collar unfastened or a long sleeve shirt with a navy blue tie. Shirts shall have the unit patch on each shoulder, the issued badge on the left breast, and the issued nameplate on the right breast side. All buttons must remain fastened, and sleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

2.    Trousers shall be navy blue without cuffs and worn with a black belt.

 

3.    Shoes shall be black plain toed, either smooth leather or high gloss. Heel and sole cannot exceed 1½ inches in height. Black or navy blue socks shall be worn.

 

4.    The uniform jacket shall be a waist length navy blue coat. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the jacket. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

5.    Raingear shall be the yellow rain suit or yellow raincoat with silver reflective markings.

 

6.    A black wool military type v-neck sweater may be worn with the long sleeve shirt. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the sweater. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

7.    The uniform hat shall be the navy blue wave hat for females and the navy blue baseball cap for males.

 

4.4.4         Crime Prevention Inspectors

 

1.    Crime Prevention Inspectors shall wear a light blue short sleeve shirt with the collar unfastened or a long sleeve shirt with a navy blue tie. Shirts shall have the appropriate patch on each shoulder, the issued badge on the left breast, and the issued nameplate on the right breast side. All buttons must remain fastened, and sleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

2.    Trousers shall be navy blue without cuffs and worn with a black belt.

 

3.    Shoes shall be black plain toed, either smooth leather or high gloss. Heel and sole cannot exceed 1½ inch in height. Black or navy blue socks shall be worn.

 

4.    The uniform jacket shall be a waist length navy blue coat. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the jacket. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

5.    A black wool military type v-neck sweater may be worn with the long sleeve shirt. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the sweater. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

6.    Raingear shall be the yellow rain suit or yellow raincoat with silver reflective markings.

 

7.    The uniform hat shall be the navy blue wave hat for females and the navy blue baseball cap for males.

 

4.4.5         Property Management Technicians

 

1.    Property Management Technicians shall wear a black polo style collared shirt, either short or long sleeved, with the Atlanta Police Department seal on the left breast, black or gray tactical style trousers with a black leather belt, and a black coaching style jacket.

 

2.    Sworn employees may also wear the navy blue coveralls with Atlanta Police patches on each shoulder and the cloth-embroidered badge on the left breast. Employees may wear an equipment belt upon approval of the unit commander. The Property Control Unit commander may authorize other uniforms based on the particular assignment or detail.

 

4.4.6         Vehicles for Hire Enforcement Officers

 

1.    Vehicles for Hire Enforcement Officers shall wear a light blue short sleeve shirt with the collar unfastened or a long sleeve shirt with a navy blue tie. Shirts shall have the unit patch on each shoulder, the issued badge on the left breast side, and the issued nameplate on the right breast side. All buttons must remain buttoned, and sleeves shall not be rolled up or under.

 

2.    Trousers shall be navy blue without cuffs and worn with a black belt.

 

3.    Shoes shall be black plain toed, either full-grain leather or high gloss. Heel and sole cannot exceed 1½ inches in height. Black or navy blue socks shall be worn.

 

4.    The uniform jacket shall be a waist length navy blue coat. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the jacket. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

5.    A black wool military type v-neck sweater may be worn with the long sleeve shirt. Shoulder patches and badges shall not be worn on the sweater. A patch indicating job classification shall be worn on the left breast side and an embroidered name on the right breast side.

 

6.    The Department-issued traffic safety vest (without police markings) shall be worn when performing traffic duties.

 

7.    Raingear shall be the yellow rain suit or yellow raincoat with silver reflective markings and may substitute for the traffic vest.

 

8.    White gloves, or high visibility colored gloves, shall be worn whenever traffic duties are being performed.

 

9.    The uniform hat shall be a navy blue and white wave hat with hat badge for females and a navy blue baseball cap with patch for males. Males and females may also wear the fur trooper cap with the hat badge.

 

4.4.7         Inventory System Specialists

 

1.    Inventory Systems Specialists shall wear black tactical pants and a with a black polo-style shirt with the Atlanta Police patch and their work assignment embroidered on the left breast and their name and job classification embroidered on the right breast. The pants shall be worn with a black belt. 

 

2.    Inventory Systems Specialists shall wear black, plain lace-up boots. The boots shall be clean and in good repair.  Heel and sole cannot exceed 11/2 inches in height.

 

3.    A black tactical shirt-jacket may be worn, weather permitting, over the polo-style shirt.

 

4.    Raingear shall be the yellow rain suit or yellow raincoat with silver reflective markings.

 

5.    Navy blue or black cover-alls may be worn as appropriate to minimize the soiling and destruction of the uniform.

 

4.4.8         Crime Scene Technicians

 

1.    Crime Scene Technicians shall wear shall wear a black polo style collared shirt, either short or long sleeved, with the Atlanta Police Department seal on the left breast and name and classification on the right breast, dark gray tactical style trousers with a black leather belt and a black coaching style jacket.  Plain black leather lace up boots shall be worn.  Boots shall be clean and in good repair, heel and sole cannot exceed 1½ inches in height.

 

2.    Crime Scene Unit supervisors shall wear the black polo style shirt as described above with khaki tactical style pants.  Black plain toed leather or high gloss shoes may be worn with the khaki pants.

 

3.    A black wool military type, v-neck, sweater may be worn with the long sleeve shirt.  Badges shall not be worn on the sweater.  The Unit shoulder patch shall be worn on both shoulders. 

 

4.    Raingear shall be the yellow rain suit or yellow raincoat with silver reflective markings.

 

5.    Dark blue lab coats are permissible and optional.  They shall have the Unit patches on each shoulder.

 

6.    The uniform hat shall be a black baseball cap, or the fur trooper hat.

 

7.    Personnel assigned to the Photo Lab shall follow these same guidelines.

 

8.    The Identification Unit commander may authorize other uniforms based on assignment or detail.

 

4.4.9         Non Uniformed Civilian Employees

 

1.    While representing the Department in civilian clothes, employees shall dress in a conservative fashion that would be acceptable in any office, business, or professional environment. Division, section, or unit commanders shall determine appropriate uniform or dress.  Appropriate dress is defined as a business suit or trousers with a sport jacket, a collared dress shirt and tie for male employees, and suits, dresses or coordinated pants, skirts or skirt outfits for female employees. 

 

2.    Shoes must coordinate with clothing and not exceed 1 ½ inches in height for male employees or 2 ½ inches in height for female employees.  Shoes must be clean and polished.

 

3.    Civilian employees assigned to technical, administrative or support duties may wear Department-approved khaki pants, with a black polo-style shirt with the Atlanta Police logo and their work assignment embroidered on the left breast and their name and rank embroidered on the right breast, and (as weather indicates) a black windbreaker style jacket with the same embroidery requirements as the polo-style shirt. 

 

4.    Section commanders have the discretion to determine which administrative attire, described in this section best serves the needs of the section.

 

5.    The following guidelines provide examples of unacceptable attire, excluding employees in undercover assignments, for any workday:

 

a.    Any item that is patched, torn or has holes,

 

b.    Tight fitting clothing, including garments made with stretchy, see-through, or sheer material,

 

c.    Leather or simulated leather pants, skirts or dresses,

 

d.    Clothing with offensive terminology or graphics, or lettering larger than pocket or sleeve logos,

 

e.    Provocative or revealing clothing, such as spaghetti strap dresses, plunging necklines, strapless and/or backless dresses, halter or midriff tops,

 

f.     Dresses, skirts or shorts that are excessively short or have front or back slits that are mid-thigh,

 

g.    Bib-overalls,

 

h.    Flip-flops or other beach style sandal, and bedroom-style slippers

 

i.     Novelty buttons,

 

j.     Trousers with pockets sewn to the main body of the fabric, other than section approved tactical uniform pants,

 

k.    Athletic shoes, and;

 

l.     Jeans.

 

5.               DEFINITIONS

 

5.1              Sworn Administrative Employees: Sworn employees whose primary job is non-enforcement, administrative in nature.  This would not prevent sworn employees from engaging in law enforcement activities should the situation arise.

 

5.2              Weapon Side: The side of the body where sworn employees wear their weapon.

 

5.3              Reaction Side:  The side of the body opposite of the weapon side.  If a weapon were worn on the right side, then the Reaction Side would be the left side, the side of the body that would be facing a perpetrator during an encounter.

 

5.4              Field Positions:  Sworn employees whose primary job is to respond to

 

6.               CANCELLATIONS

 

                  APD.SOP.2130 “Dress Code”, issued January 15, 2009

 

7.               REFERENCES

 

                  CALEA 5th ed. Standards 26.1.1; 41.3.4; 41.3.5; 41.3.6; 61.3.2(g).