Each French department is subdivided into arrondissements, each having its sub-prefecture and being headed by a sub-prefect.
Their responsibilities were limited, primarily involving the allocation of direct taxes.
The arrondissement councils were suspended by the law of October 12, 1940, and were never reactivated.
Arrondissement councils are responsible for urban planning, fire prevention, waste management, local economic development support, parks, sports and cultural facilities, road maintenance, and permits.
[6] According to Article 2, arrondissement councilors are elected by direct universal suffrage.