The Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) exercises primary law enforcement jurisdiction on the island. While there are regular island visits by deputies, direct response for calls for help by residents or visitors, and near island patrols by boat, it should be understood that the county’s limited resources are allocated based on historic crime rates, and as North Captiva island historically has a very low crime rate and few calls for service each year, a permanent presence on the island should not be expected. Resources are allocated as the need arises and situations dictate changes over time. The LCSO deputies also have regular contact and collaboration with the Fire District Administrative Staff.

The Lee Plan, 2020 Codification, as amended through June 2020 state the expectations of our island community as follows:

OBJECTIVE 26.7: PUBLIC SAFETY.  Preserve the character of North Captiva by providing for a law enforcement presence on North Captiva Island. (Added by Ordinance No. 09-09, 18-18)

POLICY 26.7.1: The North Captiva community will encourage the Lee County Sheriff’s Office to be present during special events and during periods of high occupancy on North Captiva. The North Captiva community will work to identify housing and other resources as necessary in support of enforcement activities. (Ordinance No. 09-09 18-18)

POLICY 26.7.2: Lee County will continue to ensure viable hurricane evacuation for hurricanes and other emergencies as well as emergency communication options for the residents and other affected persons. (Ordinance No. 09-09, 18-18)