The City of Fountain Valley's Administration Department is comprised of the legislative, legal, and administrative branches of City government.

Elected at large by the citizens of Fountain Valley to act as their representatives, the City Council functions as the legislative branch of the City. This five member body exercises the legal powers designated to them by the state government code pertaining to general law cities. It is the City Council's responsibility to develop public policies, approve programs, and allocate revenues to meet the needs of the City.

The City Council also functions as the Board for the Fountain Valley Agency for Community Development. In this capacity they set policies on housing and development that will best serve the interests of the community.

Appointed by the City Council, the City Attorney is responsible for the disposition of civil matters related to land use, contracts, agreements and ordinances, as well as the prosecution of misdemeanor criminal offenses committed within the City.

The City Manager is the chief administrative officer of the City and is responsible for the day-to-day activities of all City departments. He interacts with the City Council on matters of policy and procedure, and responds to local issues concerning public safety, community service, transportation, economic development, and other issues that affect quality of life for the citizens of Fountain Valley.

The City Manager is also the appointed Executive Director of the Fountain Valley Agency for Community Development. As director, he administers the housing and economic development policies set forth by the Agency's Board.

The City Council and City Manager are supported by the Administrative Services staff. Administrative Services is responsible for: Intergovernmental Relations, which involves the tracking of legislation impacting Fountain Valley at the Federal, State, and County levels; Public Information, which includes communication of City policies and programs to the media and various other audiences; and risk Management, which targets minimization of loss of City assets due to accidents, employee injuries, and third-party injuries.