The KUC is responsible for providing a variety of local public services including roads, sanitation, drains, housing, libraries, public parks and recreational facilities.
It has 20 councillors elected using an open list proportional representation system.
The inaugural Divisional Health Council consisted of a chairman, two officers and three elected members.
The first Urban Council meeting was held on 6 January 1923 and the first elected chairman was Arthur D. Abrew.
The population of the Kalutara Urban Council is 37,081 and the area is 19.8 km2 (7.6 sq mi).