Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Oregon
How local government works in Oregon, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Oregon’s Local Wiki pages below.
Most of Oregon's 36 counties are governed by an elected Board of County Commissioners (usually three members, five in some counties) holding combined legislative and executive power. Several counties have adopted home-rule charters that set their own structure — Multnomah County, for example, has an elected chair and a board — so the exact form varies by county. The County Clerk records deeds and runs elections. For meetings and records, start with the board's office or the County Clerk.
Local government in Oregon
- County governments36
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages240
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts223
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts1,029
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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