Local government structure

Definition

The organization of government at the county, city, town, and district levels, which handles community services closest to citizens. Local governments manage schools, police and fire departments, zoning, public utilities, and local infrastructure, operating under authority granted by state constitutions.

Examples

  • A city council passing local ordinances about zoning and building codes
  • County governments managing local court systems and property tax records
  • Special districts running public school systems or water utilities

Related Terms

Federalism State constitutions Purposes of government Types of government

Study This Concept

Practice local government structure with free review games in these units:

U.S. Government Unit 8: State and Local Government