Administrative divisions of Virginia

Administrative divisions of Virginia

The Commonwealth of Virginia is divided into several types of administrative divisions, including counties, independent cities, and towns. These divisions are integral to the governance and organization of the state.

Counties

Virginia is divided into 95 counties. Each county has its own county government, which typically includes a board of supervisors and various elected officials such as a sheriff, commonwealth's attorney, and clerk of the circuit court. Counties are responsible for providing a range of services to residents, including public education, law enforcement, and public health services.

Independent Cities

In addition to counties, Virginia has 38 independent cities. Unlike most other states, these cities are not part of any county and operate as separate legal entities. Each independent city has its own city council and elected officials. Examples of independent cities include Richmond, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach.

Towns

Virginia also has numerous towns, which are incorporated municipalities within counties. Towns have their own town council and may provide services such as police and fire protection, but they also rely on the surrounding county for other services. Unlike independent cities, towns are part of the counties in which they are located.

Governance

The governance structure in Virginia's administrative divisions is designed to provide local control and services to residents. Each type of division has its own set of responsibilities and powers, as defined by the Virginia Constitution and state law.

Historical Context

The current system of administrative divisions in Virginia has evolved over time. Originally, the state was divided into shires, which were later renamed as counties. The concept of independent cities was introduced to provide urban areas with greater autonomy from county governments.

See Also

• List of counties in Virginia
• List of cities in Virginia
• List of towns in Virginia
• Government of Virginia
• History of Virginia