Consistent with our community policing philosophy, the city of Burlington is divided into ten patrol districts. This ensures that assigned district officers will become accustomed to district neighborhoods and residents which allows them to better serve their community. By being aware of their district characteristics and residents, the district officer can focus on solving problems and concerns within their districts.

There are four different shifts with one additional shift. Each shift has lieutenant who is charge of two sergeants who split the shift into two platoons. Each sergeant is the leader of a team and responsible for several districts. The officers and their sergeant work the same rotation. Officers assigned to the team are assigned to specific districts. There are two all-district cars assigned to each team. This allows for the district officers to have additional staffing if needed. District officers can work together on projects and are not solely restricted to their area. All officers are directed to practice good community policing practices and work closely with community leaders, faith-based organizations, and community watch groups.