Auburn operates under a Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor is elected at large to serve as the chief executive officer of the city, overseeing daily administrative operations, managing city departments, and enforcing laws. The Auburn City Council consists of seven members who are also elected at large. The council functions as the legislative branch, responsible for setting policy, passing ordinances, and approving the city budget.
Auburn provides comprehensive municipal services, including the Auburn Police Department, a robust Parks, Arts & Recreation department, and Public Works. Fire and emergency medical services are provided by the Valley Regional Fire Authority, which Auburn formed in partnership with the neighboring cities of Algona and Pacific.
At the state and federal levels, Auburn is represented in the Washington State Legislature and typically falls within Washington's 8th Congressional District.