Municipal police, city police, or local police are law enforcement agencies that are under the control of local government. This includes the municipal government, where it is the smallest administrative subdivision. They receive funding from the city budget, and may have fewer legal powers than the "state paid" police. These police forces usually report to a mayor or a local police board.

Historical development

Historically, the role of the municipal police of local civic protection was carried out by watchmen. Today, some formations of municipal police still carry the name of the city/communal/municipal guard.

Municipal police by country