Compton operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council consists of a Mayor elected at-large and four Councilmembers elected by district. The City Council sets policy, passes ordinances, and appoints a professional City Manager to oversee the day-to-day administrative operations of the city.
Public safety is a mix of local and county resources. In 2000, following budget shortfalls and high crime rates, the city disbanded the Compton Police Department and contracted with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) for law enforcement services. The city maintains its own local Compton Fire Department for fire protection and emergency medical services.