Home Rule
The authority granted by a state to its cities to govern themselves and pass local laws without needing specific state legislative approval for each action.
How It Works
Home rule is a spectrum, not a binary. Strong home rule states (like Colorado, Ohio, Oregon) give cities broad authority to legislate on local matters. Weak home rule states (like many in the South) require state permission for many actions. Dillon's Rule states hold that cities can only exercise powers explicitly granted by the state legislature. Home rule authority is particularly relevant for revenue — cities in home rule states can more easily adopt new taxes or fees.
Related Terms
- City Charter — A city's foundational governing document — similar to a constitution — that establishes the form of government, powers, organizational structure, and key procedures.
- Dillon's Rule — A legal principle holding that cities have only those powers explicitly granted to them by the state legislature — the opposite of home rule.
About This Definition
This definition is part of the CitySpend Municipal Finance Glossary — 59 terms explaining how city governments fund and manage public services. All definitions are written in plain language for taxpayers, journalists, students, and municipal bond investors.