What are ordinances?

Ordinances are local laws or regulations enacted by municipal or county governments to govern matters within their specific jurisdiction. They are distinct from statutes, which are laws passed by state or federal legislatures. Ordinances typically address local issues such as zoning, building codes, and public safety, allowing local governments to tailor regulations to meet the needs of their communities. This local focus is essential for addressing unique regional concerns that broader state or federal laws may not adequately cover. Understanding the role of ordinances is crucial for those in law enforcement, as they must often enforce these local regulations in addition to state and federal laws.