The Colombo Municipal Council is the largest local authority in Sri Lanka and one of the oldest in South Asia. Established in 1865, it has grown into a large organization catering to the needs of a resident population of 637,865 (2001 census) and a floating population of nearly four hundred thousand (estimated). It covers an area of 37.31 sq km.

 The council with 53  Elected Councillors and 15 Departments is mainly responsible for the provision of services – public health and curative services, solid waste management, maintenance of roads, street lighting, water and drainage, and veterinary services. In addition to these there are number of departments providing social services, sports and recreation services, library services, public assistance, together with finance, rates, secretarial and training departments. The Council has a cadre of over 12,000 personnel.

 The Council is the highest policy and decision making body. The Mayor who is an elected representative is the Chief Executive Officer. There are fifteen (15) Standing Committees and each committee has six (6) elected members. The Standing Committees are related to relevant departments of the council.