Cities and counties make rules for local conditions. An ordinance is a law enacted by a municipal or other local legislative body, addressing matters within its delegated authority such as zoning, public health, noise, and business licensing.

Ordinances must conform to state and federal law and to the locality’s charter. They are typically adopted after public notice and hearing. Enforcement may involve fines, injunctions, or administrative sanctions rather than criminal prosecution, though some ordinances carry misdemeanor penalties.

Residents and businesses encounter ordinances more often than state statutes in daily life. Challenges to ordinances may allege that the locality exceeded its powers or violated constitutional rights. Clear drafting and consistent enforcement reduce disputes.

• Local law enacted by a municipal authority
• Covers zoning, health, licensing, and similar matters
• Must yield to higher state and federal law
• Enforced through fines and local procedures