Code of Ethics: Tenets, History, and Enforcement

The principles outlined in the ICMA Code of Ethics and enforced by the Rules of Procedure govern the conduct of every member of ICMA.

The ICMA Rules of Procedure, adopted by the ICMA Executive Board, govern the process for enforcing the ICMA Code of Ethics as adopted by the ICMA membership.

Adopted in 1924, the Code defined the principles that today serve as the foundation for the local government management profession and set the standard for excellence.
Ethics Education

An overview of ICMA’s training opportunities.

Online ethics training for local government staff.

ICMA’s e-book provides sound ethics advice based on real-life local government scenarios.
Member Support: Issues and Advice

Answers to common ethics questions and how to seek advice on ethical issues

Refrain from all political activities that undermine public confidence in professional administrators.

Navigating ethical communication

When your personal interests or loyalties compete with your professional obligations

A member is responsible for carefully and thoroughly investigating a position and community before accepting an offer of employment.