Stjórnvaldsfyrirmæla

Stjórnvaldsfyrirmæla is an Icelandic term that translates roughly to "administrative regulations" or "official instructions." It refers to directives, orders, or rules issued by a public authority or government agency within the scope of its legal powers. These are not laws passed by the legislature but rather a means for administrative bodies to implement and enforce existing legislation.

These regulations typically provide detailed guidance on how a particular law should be applied in practice. They can cover a wide range of subjects, from specific procedures for licensing and permits to environmental standards, health and safety protocols, and consumer protection measures. Stjórnvaldsfyrirmæla are binding on individuals and entities to whom they apply, and failure to comply can result in penalties or legal consequences.

The purpose of stjórnvaldsfyrirmæla is to ensure consistent and effective administration of public affairs and to provide clarity to the public on how regulations are to be interpreted and followed. They are an essential part of the administrative legal system in Iceland, bridging the gap between broad legislative principles and the day-to-day operational needs of government bodies. The issuance and content of these regulations are subject to legal review to ensure they remain within the bounds of the authority granted by law.