The Patrol Division is comprised of 6 teams of Patrol Deputies who respond to calls for service 24 hours a day. The Patrol Division is responsible for all general law enforcement calls for service within the City of Vista and the surrounding unincorporated area.  Each patrol deputy is assigned to a geographical "beat" area. This enables the deputies to become familiar with the residents of their "beat" and with the problems in the area. The "beat " system is a cornerstone of the Community Oriented Policing concept requiring the interaction of neighborhood residents with law enforcement.  In partnership working in concert to resolve and maintain "quality of life" issues and to create an environment safe from crime.

Patrol deputies are also active in the community during their shift, attending Neighborhood Watch meetings and making various presentations to youth groups, service groups and schools.