In Ocean City, the mayor exercises executive power over the municipality. Under the mayor's direction, administration staff members oversee day-to-day operations, hire employees, prepare budgets, provide services, maintain infrastructure, and plan projects and programs for all residents, guests and taxpayers.

The business administrator, as the chief operating officer, oversees the following departments: Community Services, Financial Management, Fire and Rescue Services, Law, Capital Projects and Engineering, Police Services and Public Works. In addition, the business administrator also serves as the department head for the following Divisions: Construction Code, Emergency Management, Human Resources, Municipal Code, Planning, Purchasing and Zoning.

The mission of the Department of Capital Programs, Project Management and Engineering is to oversee the city’s critical infrastructure improvements and manage all projects from concept through final construction. The department leads efforts to identify and secure grant funding.

The Office of the City Clerk is the public’s access point to government records, voting information, licenses, permits, certain maps and archives. The office maintains information regarding City Council and has a variety of resources for citizens from the city, county, state and other agencies.

The Department of Community Services provides services, programs and activities for the residents, visitors and businesses in Ocean City. The department also maintains the recreation and leisure facilities throughout the city.

The Finance department, under the direction of Chief Financial Officer, Frank Donato III, is responsible for all financial and reporting functions for the City of Ocean City as regulated by the State of New Jersey.

The Ocean City Fire Department is a dedicated team of professionals that are committed to providing fire, rescue, and emergency medical services. Our promise is to serve all of Ocean City’s residents and visitors with respect, integrity, and excellence.

The City of Ocean City was incorporated March 25, 1897. Since July 1, 1978, the City has operated under the Mayor-Council form of government pursuant to the Faulkner Act, Chapter 69A of Title 40 of the New Jersey Statutes.

This form of government provides for election of a mayor and seven council members. Three council members may be elected at large and four are elected by wards; and serve four-year concurrent or staggered terms.

The Department of Law under the direction of Dottie McCrosson, is responsible for managing all legal activities of the City including the Public Defender, Assistant Public Defender and outside Counsels. Responsibilities include conducting legal research, preparing legal opinions, reviewing proposed legislation and representing the City in all legal matters.

The Ocean City Beach Patrol was established in 1898 and has four "zones" providing ocean lifeguard and EMS services for Ocean City's approximately eight miles of protected beaches. Each zone has its own headquarters on the beach at 1st Street, 12th Street, 34th Street and 59th Street.

The Ocean City Police Department and the men and women, both sworn and civilian that fill its ranks, are committed to the highest levels of professionalism in providing service to both residents and visitors alike to “Americas Greatest Family Resort”, Ocean City New Jersey.

Public Works is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all public facilities, infrastructure and assets. Through strategic employment of team members and resources, we keep the city clean and well-maintained, manage city facilities and infrastructure and provide quick and courteous services.  Our goal is the satisfaction of our residents and guests and the maintenance and improvement of Ocean City’s public assets to the highest standards of quality.