The Burnie local government area is classified as urban and has a population of 19,348,[1] which also encompasses Cooee, Hampshire, Natone and Ridgley.

Burnie is classified as urban, regional and small (URS) under the Australian Classification of Local Governments.

The Burnie City Council consists of nine councillors, who each serve a four-year term of office.

Traditionally the term "alderman" was used, but was changed by a council vote on 20 November 2018.

A small part of Hampshire extends into Waratah-Wynyard, but all of its population is likely to be in the City of Burnie.