omavalitsus

Omavalitsus is the system of local self-government in Estonia, referring to the municipal level as the basic unit of local administration. Municipalities, or omavalitsusüksused, come in two types: urban municipalities (linn) and rural municipalities (vald). Each municipality is governed by a municipal council (vallavolikogu or linnavolikogu) elected every four years in local elections. The council sets local policy and budget, while the executive power is exercised by the municipal government (vallavalitsus for rural areas, linnavalitsus for towns) led by the mayor (vallavanem or linnapea).

Competences are defined by law and typically include local planning and land use, education and social services, health care, culture and youth, local transport and roads, housing, utilities, waste management, and the administration of local taxes and charges. Local government operates with a mix of own revenue and state support. Municipalities collect local taxes and fees, receive state transfers, and manage budgets for local services. The central government retains supervision to ensure compliance with national law and the constitution.

History and reform: The 2017 administrative reform reduced the number of municipalities to 79 to improve service delivery and financial viability. Local self-government is guaranteed by the Estonian Constitution, and the Local Government Organization Act provides the detailed framework for the structure and powers of omavalitsus.