Canada has three main levels of government—local, provincial, and federal—each with distinct responsibilities. Understanding who handles what can help citizens direct their concerns appropriately.
- Local Government (e.g., City of Abbotsford): Manages community safety, local roads, water and sewer services, zoning, parks, recreation, and waste collection. City Council addresses these issues and values public feedback.
- Provincial Government (e.g., Government of BC): Oversees healthcare, education, highways, housing, social services, and more. Citizens vote for MLAs in provincial elections.
- Federal Government (Government of Canada): Handles national and international matters like defense, immigration, foreign affairs, criminal law, and monetary policy.
- Regional Districts (e.g., Fraser Valley Regional District): Provide services that span multiple municipalities, such as regional parks, infrastructure, air quality, and animal control.
- School Districts: Governed locally but follow provincial education policy. Boards of Education manage public schools and are elected during municipal elections.
View the Who Does What in Government graphic for full details.
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