Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Washington
How local government works in Washington, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Washington’s Local Wiki pages below.
Most of Washington's 39 counties are governed by an elected three-member Board of County Commissioners holding combined legislative and executive power. Several larger counties — including King, Pierce, and Snohomish — have adopted home-rule charters with an elected county council and, in most, a separately elected county executive. The elected County Auditor records documents and runs elections. For a meeting, start with the commissioners' or council's clerk; for records and elections, the County Auditor.
Local government in Washington
- County governments39
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages281
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts295
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts1,270
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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