What does home rule allow local governments to do?

Home rule allows local governments to establish their own sets of codes and standards, which grants them the authority to tailor regulations according to the specific needs and characteristics of their communities. This ability empowers local governments to enact laws and policies that reflect local priorities, culture, and environmental conditions.

For example, a local government might adopt building codes that address the unique risks of wildfire in their area, ensuring that structures are built to withstand such threats. This flexibility is instrumental in areas prone to wildfires, as it allows for the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures tailored to local conditions.

While local governments under home rule do have significant autonomy, they cannot completely override state regulations, implement federal building codes directly without state endorsement, or control all zoning laws in a way that contradicts state legislation. The scope of home rule typically is defined by state law, which can set limits on the extent of local governance.