The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Lakes Enforcement Unit was developed to assist in the protection of the lives and property of the residents of Lincoln County on Lake Norman and Mountain Island Lake, as well as the general protection of the boating public.  LCSO currently has one full time dedicated Lake Enforcement officer, but utilizes part time (auxillary) officers as well as other sworn full time officers to assist on weekends holidays and throughout the busy summer months.

 Duties of the Lakes Enforcement Unit include patrol of the shoreline of Lincoln County, the answering of calls for service, and boater assistance, as well as the enforcement of North Carolina and federal boating and safety laws.  Lake enforcement officers have received specialized training in Marine Law Enforcement techniques and current marine laws.  The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office also participates in annual Nuclear Regulatory Commission training and testing for lake evacuation in the event of a nuclear emergency.

The Unit patrols in a 17 foot 1997 Mckee Craft, powered by a 175hp Mercury outboard.  They also utilize two Yamaha Waverunner PWC's which are obtained through the Yamaha Law Loan program on an annual basis at no cost to the department.  These specialized vessels allow the unit to patrol very close to the shoreline and in shallower water areas as well as to get closer to boaters during special events on the lake.