California's Counties

Overview

What Do Counties Do?

Each one of California’s 38 million residents lives within the boundaries of one of the state’s 58 counties. California’s counties serve a dual role. They provide a vast array of municipal services to residents, including roads, parks, law enforcement, emergency response services and libraries. Counties also serve as a delivery channel for many State services, such as foster care, public health care, jails and elections.   

Overview

How Counties are Structured

The basic provisions for the government of California counties are contained in the California Constitution and the California Government Code. A county is the largest political subdivision of the state having corporate powers. It is vested by the Legislature with the powers necessary to provide for the health and welfare of the people within its borders. The specific organizational structure of a county in California will vary from county to county.

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Where We are Located

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Our 58 Counties