The DCSOT is a cooperative effort of public safety agencies in Dakota County, Minnesota. The team was developed after the 9-1-1 terrorism attack.

The DCSOT is currently operational with a focus on incidents involving Hazardous Materials, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Technical Rope Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, Trench Rescue, and SWAT Operations.

The team consists of 36 members from police, fire, and EMS agencies within the county. Team members operate as highly skilled rescuers, while ensuring crime scene preservation and the tactical safety and rescue of those involved in the incident. The DCSOT is available to assist agencies within Dakota County with incidents that require additional resources or specialized skills. Sean McKnight of the Apple Valley Police Department is the Team Commander.

The DCSOT is also part of the Minnesota Structural Collapse Team, Minnesota Task Force One (MN-TF1). Together with Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, and Rochester Fire Departments, MN-TF1 responds with specialized equipment and trained personnel to assist with Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and Structural Collapse Incidents throughout Minnesota.