City limits

City limits refer to the geographical boundaries that define the jurisdictional areas of a city or town. These boundaries are legally defined and are used for various administrative purposes, such as taxation, zoning, and law enforcement.

Definition

The term "city limits" is used to describe the outermost boundaries of a city's jurisdiction. These limits are often marked by signs on major roads entering and leaving the city. The area within the city limits is governed by the city's municipal government, while areas outside the city limits fall under the jurisdiction of the county or state government.

Function

City limits serve several important functions. They define the area within which the city's laws and regulations apply. They also determine the area for which the city is responsible for providing services such as water and sewer, trash collection, and police and fire protection. In addition, city limits are used to determine property tax rates and zoning regulations.

Expansion and Annexation

City limits can change over time as a city grows and expands. This process is often referred to as annexation. Annexation can occur when a city acquires unincorporated land adjacent to its existing city limits, or when it absorbs a smaller town or city. The process of annexation often involves negotiations between the city and the owners of the land being annexed, and may require approval from the state government.

Disputes

Disputes over city limits can arise for a variety of reasons. For example, residents of an area being annexed may oppose the annexation because they do not want to be subject to the city's taxes or regulations. Similarly, disputes can arise between cities over the exact location of their shared city limit.

See also

• Municipal government
• Annexation
• Zoning
• Urban planning