Fullerton is General-law municipality with a council-manager government Legislative authority is vested in a city council of five non-partisan members who serve four-year staggered terms, whom elect a chair who serves as mayor. Elections are held every two years and are consolidated with the statewide general elections held in November of even numbered years. The City Manager is responsible for day-to-day operations. Prior to 2016, all council seats were elected at large. In 2016, voters passed Measure II which changed at-large representation to election for five districts

As the local legislative body, the council adopts ordinances and policies which direct the city government. The city council also appoints members to all boards and commissions.

While city management participates in the development of policies, the city council is the final decision-making authority. As elected officials, their responsibility is to represent the residents. Therefore, citizen participation at all levels is invited and encouraged by the city council.

The council frequently relies on ad hoc citizen committees or standing boards and commissions to recommend actions on major issues. While the city council has the responsibility to make the final decision, what the citizen committees recommend is highly valued by this municipal legislative body.

The City Manager, who is appointed by the city council, is responsible for the overall operation and supervision of the government functions within the policy directives of the city council.

As the administrative head of the city government, he is responsible for the appointment and dismissal of all employees, except for the City Attorney who are appointed by city council.