Counties and Townships

Ohio has 88 counties. Each is run by elected county commissioners and provides local services.

• Counties are divided into townships, which serve areas outside of cities and villages.
• Townships are typically led by township trustees.

Cities and Villages

Cities and Villages—also called municipalities—are the smallest units of local government.

• Villages have fewer than 5,000 people while cities have 5,000 or more.
• Municipal leaders can include mayors, managers, and village or city councils.
• Cities and villages can cross county or township lines.

Home Rule

Ohio is a home rule state, which means:

• Cities and villages can make their own local laws, as long as they follow state and federal rules.
• Townships with over 2,500 people can also use home rule powers.
• Cuyahoga and Summit Counties have special charters that let them pass their own laws too.

Rosters

The Ohio Secretary of State keeps official lists of all counties, cities, villages, and townships and their leaders.