Code of Ordinances

Definitions

A code of ordinance is a law, statute, or regulation enacted by a Municipal Corporation. An ordinance is a law passed by a municipal government.

Purpose

Ordinances constitute the subject matter of municipal law. The power of municipal governments to enact ordinances is derived from the state constitution or statutes or through the legislative grant of a municipal charter. The charter in large part dictates how much power elected officials have to regulate actions within the municipality.

Many ordinances deal with maintaining public safety, health, morals, and general welfare. For example, a municipality may enact housing ordinances that set minimum standards of habitability. Other ordinances deal with fire and safety regulations that residential, commercial, and industrial property owners must follow. Many municipalities have enacted noise ordinances, which prohibit prescribed levels of noise after certain hours of the evening.

Ordinances may also deal with public streets and sidewalks. They typically include regulations regarding parking, snow removal, and littering.

Code of Ordinances & State Statutes