Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Colorado
How local government works in Colorado, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Colorado’s Local Wiki pages below.
Most of Colorado's 64 counties are governed by an elected Board of County Commissioners (usually three members, more in some larger counties) holding combined legislative and executive power, sometimes aided by an appointed administrator or manager for daily operations. A small minority of counties (Broomfield, Denver, Pitkin, and Weld) have adopted "home rule" charters allowing a customized structure — Denver is also a consolidated city-county, a feature specific to that city rather than a statewide pattern. For a meeting or records request, start with the county commissioners' office or the Clerk and Recorder.
Local government in Colorado
- County governments62
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages270
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts180
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts3,157
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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