No bond or security shall be required by the sheriff except as provided by these rules.
Rule 3116.Security for sheriff.
Adopted March 30, 1960 · Last amended March 30, 1960 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceThe sheriff may not demand a bond or security from a party except where these rules specifically authorize it, so a creditor is not put to the expense of security the rules do not require.
Full Text of Rule 3116
Plain-English Summary
This short rule limits when the sheriff can insist on security. No bond or security may be required by the sheriff except as the rules provide — for instance, the cost of retaining and preserving levied property, or forcing open a safe deposit box.
By making the rules the sole source of any security demand, it keeps the sheriff from imposing ad hoc conditions on a creditor pursuing execution, and it tells both sides exactly when a bond is in play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would the sheriff require security?
To be protected against liability or loss in executing the writ.
Who provides the security?
The party seeking the sheriff's action, as the rule contemplates.
Official Note
Official Note: Adopted March 30, 1960, effective November 1, 1960. See Rule 3109(d) authorizing bond or security for the cost of retaining or preserving property levied upon and Rule 3110(d) authorizing bond to indemnify depository upon the forcible open- ing of a safe deposit box.
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: security for sheriff