The role of the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board (Board) is to provide civilian oversight to the activities of the Victoria Police Department, on behalf of the residents of Esquimalt and Victoria. The Police Act gives the Board the authority to:

• Establish an independent police department and appoint the chief constable and other constables and employees;
• Direct and oversee the department to ensure the enforcement of municipal bylaws, criminal laws and the laws of British Columbia, the maintenance of law and order; and the prevention of crime;
• Carry out other requirements as specified in the Act and other relevant legislation; and
• Play a key role in ensuring that the organization carries out its actions and activities in an acceptable manner.

The Board operates under the oversight of the Police Services Division of the BC Ministry of Justice which is responsible for Police Boards and policing in BC. The Board is responsible for providing police and law enforcement services for the municipalities of Esquimalt and Victoria.