The force was established in 1997 when the Portland Harbour Authority bought the port from the British Government.

This will involve the sharing of assets, improving communication and allowing the collation of information.

[7] All Port Police officers are sworn in as "special constables" under Section 79 of the Harbours, Docks, and Piers Clauses Act 1847 (HDPCA).

All officers have a "warrant card" which is used to identify their authority as constables.

[9] The rank structure of the Portland Port Police force is as follows: