Renton operates under a Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of the city, overseeing all city departments, operations, and the implementation of policies. The City Council consists of seven members elected at-large by the community to serve staggered four-year terms.
The municipal government provides a comprehensive suite of public services, including its own police department, municipal court, parks and recreation department, and public works (managing water, streets, and sanitation). Fire services in the area are provided by the Renton Regional Fire Authority (RFA), a separate municipal corporation.