What is City Charter?

A city charter is a legal document that acts like a city’s constitution. It defines how the city government is organized, what powers it has, and how it operates. The charter outlines roles for elected officials, like the mayor, city council, and city manager. It also sets the rules for how local laws, or ordinances, are made and enforced.

Every city’s charter can look a little different because each community chooses a structure that fits its needs. Most charters outline one of several common forms of local government, including:

• Mayor–Council System: This system resembles the federal model, with a separately elected mayor and city council. In strong-mayor cities, the mayor acts as the chief executive, oversees city departments, prepares budgets, and has significant administrative authority. Conversely, in weak-mayor cities, the mayor’s powers are limited, and the council plays a larger role in managing day-to-day operations.

• Council–Manager System: In this model, voters elect a city council, which then hires a professional city manager to run daily operations, oversee staff, and implement policies. The mayor’s role is often more ceremonial, though in some cities they may have additional powers. This system emphasizes administrative expertise and nonpartisan management.

• Commission System: Though less common today, this system gives elected commissioners both legislative and executive responsibilities. Each commissioner oversees a specific department, such as public safety or public works.

A city charter also covers practical details like budgeting rules, elections, terms of office, ethics regulations, and the city’s authority to levy taxes or issue bonds. Because communities change over time, charters can be amended or rewritten through public votes or legislative approval.