The stated goals of the council include providing infrastructure needs, and enhancing regional economic development in a sustainable manner.

The Maharagama local body was established in 1963 with an area of only 5 km2 (1.9 sq mi).

In 1988 this was expanded to 21 km2 (8.1 sq mi) and the body was upgraded to Pradeshiya Sabha status.

[3] On 10 January 2002, the Maharagama Urban Council was gazetted by Alick Aluwihare, as Minister of Local Government.

Accordingly, the Urban Council was granted jurisdiction over 41 Grama Niladhari divisions.