The level of government closest to residents

The municipality is a local authority administered by a municipal council. Municipal councillors are elected for six years; they then elect the mayor.

Main responsibilities

The municipality is responsible in particular for local urban planning and the maintenance and operation of public nursery and primary schools. The mayor also performs certain duties on behalf of the State, particularly in relation to civil registration.

Key points: municipalities, departments and regions are different local authorities, with distinct responsibilities. The mayor is not the prefect.