Local authorities

There are 32 directly elected local authorities in Scotland.

They provide local services and receive a large part of their funding from the Government, and through local council tax. Services include:

  • Education
  • Housing
  • Public libraries
  • Transport
  • Roads and lighting
  • Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire brigade)
  • Refuse uplift and environmental services

The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) represents Scottish local government and also acts as the employers’ association on behalf of all Scottish councils.

Visit the COSLA website to find details for each local authority.