North Macedonia is divided into 80 municipalities, which constitute the primary and only level of local self-government below the national government. These municipalities function as the basic administrative units responsible for delivering public services and governance at the local level. Their responsibilities include urban planning and zoning, local economic development, primary education and childcare facilities, public utilities, local roads and infrastructure, environmental protection, and cultural activities. Municipalities collect local taxes and fees while also receiving transfers from the central government to fund their operations. Each municipality is governed by a directly elected council and mayor, who serve four-year terms. The municipal structure was established following the country's independence and has been reformed several times, most notably in 2004, to strengthen local autonomy and improve service delivery to citizens.