What is Ordinance?

The term ordinance is used to describe a set of rules, regulations, and laws that are created in order to provide government control and order within a particular community or area. Ordinances are typically enforced by local outposts of police and law enforcement with the aim of promoting public safety and welfare.

Origins and History of Ordinance

The term ordinance dates as far back as 1300 BC, when Leviticus and other similar books of the Bible set forth a set of guidelines for their followers to follow. Ordinances were initially developed to protect the people from themselves and from external sources, such as other communities or land owners. In fact, the term ordinance is derived from Medieval Latin, which loosely translates to an “act of commandment”, meaning an order from a higher power.

Types of Ordinances

Ordinances usually vary from community to community and can range from noise regulations to property or land use regulations, and even ordinances designed to prohibit certain unhealthy behaviors. Ordinances, though limited in scope, are binding and are enforced locally.

In conclusion, ordinances are an important aspect of local government that helps to provide order and establish guidelines in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the people. While ordinances have sometimes been seen as overbearing or oppressive, they are ultimately there to protect the people and the interests of the governing bodies.