Municipal law generally includes the laws and ordinances specific to a city, town, or county—also known as a municipality. Municipal law often addresses legal issues for which the city or town government is responsible for enforcing—such as zoning restrictions, land use and development, property taxes, sales taxes, trash pickup and disposal, water and sewer service, noise pollution, odor pollution, fire and burning restrictions, police powers, inspection of residential and commercial buildings, and condemnation of buildings.

In California, municipal law encompasses the regulations and ordinances that are specific to cities, towns, or counties within the state. These laws are typically enacted by local governing bodies, such as city councils or county boards of supervisors, and address a wide range of issues that fall under the jurisdiction of local governments. Key areas of municipal law include zoning laws, which regulate land use and development to ensure the orderly growth of communities; property and sales tax ordinances, which provide a significant source of revenue for local governments; and regulations concerning public services such as trash collection, water, and sewer services. Municipal law also covers regulations related to environmental concerns, such as noise and odor pollution, and public safety issues, including fire restrictions and police powers. Additionally, local governments are responsible for the inspection of residential and commercial buildings to ensure compliance with safety and health standards, and they have the authority to condemn buildings that are deemed unsafe. Each municipality in California may have its own unique set of laws and ordinances, tailored to the specific needs and concerns of the local community.