Hennepin County Sheriff's Water Patrol

The site is designed to give the residents of Hennepin County, Minnesota the latest information to enhance their enjoyment of the waters of the county, both summer and winter. It provides links to the LMCD, Minnesota DNR, the US Power Squadron and other organizations that promote boat and water safety. (If you are not looking for the Hennepin County Water Patrol, click here to find other water patrol sites in Minnesota and the USA)

There are 104 lakes and three rivers in Hennepin County, Minnesota. The Hennepin County Water Patrol is responsible for the safety and regulation of all lakes and, in conjunction with the US Coast Guard and adjoining county sheriff's, the rivers of the county.

As summer turns to fall and winter, this responsibility changes from safe boating, to safe snowmobiling, ice fishing and other winter activities.

From here, you can access information about the Water Patrol, apply for temporary structure and special event permits, and find out about rules and regulations on various lakes and rivers, including Lake Minnetonka, the Mississippi River and the Minnesota River.