How do you find information about local ordinances?

Local ordinances are often available in the city or county clerk's office and large public libraries, according to Nolo. For example, the Seattle Public Library maintains an online listing of many U.S. municipal codes. Local codes are often stricter than state or national laws but cannot be weaker.

Local codes affect daily life in many ways. They often govern noise, parking and public health. When requesting a permit for construction or a business license, the local code often provides guidance, notes Nolo. Local codes also affect citizen's civil rights and discrimination. Many individual agencies within city governments provide up-to-date copies of the codes they are responsible for enforcing.