Until recently, the Pima County Natural Resources Department was commissioned to enforce state laws and local ordinances on Pima County park properties. However, the Pima County Board of Supervisors has reallocated that responsibility to the Pima County Sheriff's Department. In response to this mandate, the Sheriff has created the Parks Enforcement Unit, which consists of five deputies and a sergeant. Additionally, the Sheriff has solicited the assistance of the Southern Arizona Rescue Association, Sheriff's Auxiliary Volunteers, and the Sheriff's Mounted Posse to provide non-law enforcement assistance to the Parks Enforcement Unit. While the Parks Enforcement Unit will pursue traditional law enforcement activities, the volunteers will act in concert with their efforts by providing services such as mobile observation and public assistance.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department's Parks Enforcement Unit is responsible for patrolling park properties on foot, bike, and all terrain vehicles. Additionally, the Parks Enforcement Unit will provide search and rescue services throughout Pima County, as well as park properties. They are also responsible for directing patrol efforts toward specific criminal activities that drain public resources and hinder the family friendly environment that Pima County parks are known for.