What limitation do cities face in their governance?

Cities operate under the authority granted to them by their state’s constitution and laws, specifically through a charter provided by the state legislature. This charter outlines the scope of powers and responsibilities that cities can exercise in governance. These powers can include everything from local taxation to zoning regulations and law enforcement, but they are confined to the parameters set by the state.

This limitation ensures that cities cannot exceed the powers explicitly given to them, meaning they must adhere to the constraints of the charter. The charter can vary significantly from one municipality to another, affecting how cities function and the extent of their authority. Therefore, understanding the relationship between city governance and its charter is crucial for grasping the limitations cities face in their governance.