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An ordinance is defined as a rule or regulation that is enacted by the legislative body of a municipality. This process allows local governments, like cities or towns, to create laws that address specific issues pertinent to their communities. Ordinances typically cover a range of matters, including zoning regulations, public health and safety measures, and local business operations.

This distinct role of ordinances sets them apart from federal laws, which are enacted by Congress, state-issued guidelines, or recommendations made by community groups that do not carry the force of law. Understanding the function and authority of ordinances is crucial for recognizing how local governance operates and the ways in which residents can engage with their municipal regulations.