Edinburgh City Division of Police Scotland is responsible for policing Scotland's capital city. With a population of approximately 530,000, Edinburgh hosts major international events including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe — the world's largest arts festival — and the Royal Military Tattoo. The city's compact Old Town and extensive New Town — both UNESCO World Heritage Sites — present unique public safety and crowd management challenges.
About Edinburgh City Police Division (Police Scotland)
Edinburgh City Police Division (Police Scotland) is part of Police Scotland, operating as a divisional headquarters in Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh. The force has been serving the community since 1805. The station is situated in the Scotland region and plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and order across its jurisdiction.
Areas Covered by Police Scotland
Police Scotland is responsible for policing a wide area that includes:
- Edinburgh City Centre
- Leith
- Portobello
- Morningside
- Gorgie
- Craigmillar
- South Edinburgh
- North Edinburgh
If you live in or are visiting any of these areas, Police Scotland is the police force responsible for your safety. For non-emergency enquiries, dial 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
History of Police Scotland
Edinburgh has had organised policing since 1805, making it one of the earliest policed cities in Britain. The Edinburgh City Police became part of Lothian and Borders Police in 1975, which in turn merged into Police Scotland in 2013. St Leonard's police station has served as the divisional base for central Edinburgh for many decades and is one of the most recognisable police buildings in Scotland.
How to Contact Edinburgh City Division
You can reach Edinburgh City Division by calling 0131 662 5000. For non-emergency matters anywhere in the UK, you can also dial 101, which will connect you to your local police force.
You can also email the force at edinburghdivision@scotland.police.uk.
Edinburgh City Police Division (Police Scotland)
St Leonard's, 14 St Leonard's StreetHow to Report a Crime
If you need to report a crime, there are several ways to do so:
- Emergency: Call 999 if a crime is in progress, someone is in immediate danger, or there is a risk to life
- Non-emergency: Call 101 to report a crime that has already happened, provide information, or make general enquiries
- Online: Visit Police Scotland's website to report a crime online or use the live chat service
- Crimestoppers: Report information anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting Crimestoppers
Your Rights When Dealing with the Police
When you come into contact with the police in the UK, you have certain rights that are protected by law. If you are stopped and searched, the officer must give you their name, the station they are based at, the reason for the search, and what they expect to find. If arrested, you have the right to free legal advice, to inform someone of your arrest, and to consult the Codes of Practice. For more information, visit GOV.UK's guide on being stopped by the police.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the phone number for Edinburgh City Division?
You can contact Edinburgh City Division on 0131 662 5000. For non-emergencies across the UK, dial 101. In an emergency, always call 999.
What areas does Police Scotland cover?
Police Scotland covers Edinburgh City Centre, Leith, Portobello, Morningside, Gorgie and 3 more areas. The force is headquartered in Edinburgh.
Where is Edinburgh City Division located?
Edinburgh City Division is located at St Leonard's, 14 St Leonard's Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9QW. Click the address to get directions via Google Maps.
How do I report a crime to Police Scotland?
For emergencies call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101 or visit the Police Scotland website to report online. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
When was Police Scotland established?
Police Scotland was established in 1805. Edinburgh has had organised policing since 1805, making it one of the earliest policed cities in Britain.