Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Alabama
How local government works in Alabama, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Alabama’s Local Wiki pages below.
Alabama's 67 counties are governed by an elected county commission (commonly 3–7 members) that holds combined legislative and executive power — setting the budget, tax rate, and county policy, often with an appointed administrator handling daily operations. Records such as deeds and mortgages are recorded separately through each county's elected Probate Judge, not the commission itself. For a public meeting, contact the county commission office; for a records request, the Probate Judge's office is often the right starting point.
Local government in Alabama
- County governments67
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages462
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts138
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts540
Single-purpose governments — fire, water, library, parks, housing, transit, and more.
Counts: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Census of Governments — Government Units listing. A consolidated city-county is counted once.
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