About us
The City of Irvine was incorporated on December 28, 1971, under the general laws of the State of California. We operate under a charter law form of government which was adopted in 1975, meaning we have a City Council-City Manager form of government. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to function as the chief administrator of the City. City Council sets the policy directions for the City, and the City Manager is charged with implementing those directions. Additionally, the City Manager keeps the Council informed of City operations, prepares the annual budget, oversees special programs, and coordinates the various department activities.
Irvine is one of the nation's largest planned urban communities and encompasses more than 55 square miles. We contract for fire and medical services with the County of Orange, and have three independent districts: library, educational and utility services. Other government services include: animal control; building and safety regulation and inspection; general administrative services; planning and zoning; police; public facility/capital improvement construction; recreation and cultural programs; refuse collection and recycling; street lighting; street maintenance; landscape maintenance and transportation management.
Mission
"Our goal is to create and maintain a community where people can live, work and play in an environment that is safe, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing. This community promotes the well-being of all people."
Goals
Maintain and enhance the physical environment by never letting any visible deterioration take hold in the community.
Maintain a safe and secure community by assuring the right balance between public safety services and prevention strategies.
Promote economic prosperity by attracting and retaining businesses and sales tax.
Promote effective government by assuring that the City organization is flexible, market-based and customer focused in its service delivery.
History
Archeological research establishes prehistoric man in the Irvine area at least 12,000 years ago, possibly even 18,000 years ago. Scattered evidence of early campsites and rock shelters can be seen in the undeveloped parts of the city.
Gabrielino Indians moved into the Irvine area 2,000 years ago, establishing dozens of villages. One village was located near the present San Joaquin marsh and another near the San Joaquin golf course.
The Gabrielinos were of the Shosonean language group. They enjoyed an abundant food supply of shellfish, waterfowl and land animals. They lived in round, woven huts and were excellent basket weavers and makers of seashell and stone jewelry.
Winter holiday events begin December 7 and include a Holiday Tree lighting at Illuminate Irvine, the Irvine Fine Arts Center Holiday Market, and Holidayz at the Park. IRVINE, CA - The City of Irvine invites the community to celebrate the holiday…
Read More »Reimagine What's Possible; Visit the Great Park Gallery A new exhibition, Natural Language: Contemporary Book Art, is coming to the Great Park Gallery Sunday, January 28, and includes an opening reception with the featured artists from 1 to 3 p.m.…
Read More »City of Irvine Named Top Workplace for Third Year in a Row by The Orange County Register Companies honored embraced strength, exceptionality, success, and culture. IRVINE, Calif. (December 12, 2023): The City of Irvine was awarded a Top…
Read More »Irvine, CA - In an effort to address the growing blood supply crisis in Orange County, the City of Irvine and UCI Health are partnering together to host a blood drive event Wednesday, December 20, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at the Irvine Civic Center.…
Read More »City of Irvine Earns a Perfect Score of 100 in Nationwide Municipal Equality Index for the Second Consecutive Year Irvine also received nine bonus points in the 12th annual evaluation. IRVINE, Calif. (December 7, 2023): The City of Irvine, for…
Read More »Irvine, CA - The City of Irvine received a 2023 Digital Cities Survey award from the Center for Digital Government, a national research and advisory institute focused on technology policy and best practices in state and local government. Irvine…
Read More »Celebrate the spirit of togetherness, goodwill, and the wonder of the holiday season with three, signature holiday events beginning December 2 at the Great Park. Enjoy enchanting, holiday events at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex featuring…
Read More »Art at City Hall Exhibition Paul Gardner: A Retrospective Opens December 11 The exhibition features the abstract expressionist work of City of Irvine artist Paul Gardner. IRVINE, Calif. (November 29, 2023): The City of Irvine is pleased to…
Read More »The City of Irvine is proud to offer classes that empower you to cultivate new skills or hobbies, connect with your community, and grow personally and professionally. From fitness and wellness to arts and culture, you’ll find something for…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif : The City of Irvine, in partnership with Southern California Edison, is proud to offer its residents access to XeroHome, a free program that helps single-family homeowners identify ways to reduce their home energy bills and lower…
Read More »CELEBRATE FIESTA LATINA EN IRVINE The City of Irvine, in partnership with UCI and UCI Health, invites you to celebrate Fiesta Latina en Irvine Sunday, September 17, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Great Park. This free event includes art, education,…
Read More »Thyme to Get Cooking with Irvine Classes! It's thyme to get cooking with City of Irvine classes. Chefs-in-training gain confidence in the kitchen through safely preparing a variety of foods, properly handling common cooking tools, following a…
Read More »Irvine, CA - The City of Irvine has received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30,…
Read More »Take a Learning Adventure with Irvine Classes! Take a learning adventure with City of Irvine classes. Children can discover courses in the sciences, arts, athletics, music, dance, and more. Then, they can apply these academic skills in a…
Read More »Bust Out Your Bodacious Dance Moves at the Summer Dance Party! Summer Dance Party is presented as part of the new summer event series, Summer in the City, which features a variety of fun, family events throughout June, July, and August. Don't…
Read More »ENJOY LIVE OUTDOOR CONCERTS The final Summer in the City concerts are August 5 and 19 at Mike Ward Community - Woodbridge. Enjoy family-friendly performances from Tijuana Dogs as they play top 40 hits and DW3 with a throwback to soul, R&B, and…
Read More »Irvine, CA - The City of Irvine invites the community to learn about maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle at the 14th annual Senior Expo Friday, August 25, 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Lakeview Senior Center. This free event is designed for…
Read More »Submissions for the Irvine Animal Care Center Photo Fundraiser Open August 1 Submit pet photos online through August 31 for a chance to be featured in the 2024 Irvine Animal Care Center wall calendar. IRVINE, Calif. (July 27, 2023): The Irvine…
Read More »Discover the Science of Nature at Irvine Camps! Kids can discover the science of nature this summer at Irvine camps. Learning about how the world works using scientific tools can help children develop the ability to ask insightful questions,…
Read More »Drop off donations through August 4 to benefit the families of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion. Irvine, CA -- The City of Irvine is receiving new baby gift donations to provide support and care for the families of Irvine’s…
Read More »The City of Irvine and UCI Health to host Blood Drive at City Hall The blood drive will take place July 13. IRVINE, Calif. (July 10, 2023): The City of Irvine and UCI Health are partnering together to address the blood supply crisis posing a…
Read More »Become a Tech Wizard with STEM Camps in Irvine Become a tech wizard with STEM summer camps in Irvine! Children and teens will engage their creativity, learn how to ask insightful questions to gain deeper understanding, and develop observational…
Read More »Life is a Picnic! Life is a picnic, and there's so much to enjoy with summer festivities at Sweet Shade. Stay active with Adaptive Yoga and No Limit Fitness, play outdoor games, and make memories at our Sunset Family Picnic! Browse a complete…
Read More »Irvine, CA - The Irvine Fine Arts Center proudly announces the opening of All Media 2023, an exhibition featuring 67 local and national artists who work in disciplines such as sculpture, photography, painting, ceramics, drawing, collage, metal,…
Read More »The City of Irvine Launches New Summer Event Series Summer in the City features family-friendly events held throughout the summer at Irvine parks. IRVINE, Calif. (June 21, 2023): The City of Irvine is launching a new summer event series, Summer in…
Read More »Have a Sportstastic Summer with Irvine Camps Have a sportstastic summer with camps in Irvine. From skateboarding to sand volleyball and soccer, the City offers a variety of sport-specific camps for children. Learning to play a sport can help…
Read More »City of Irvine to Host Second Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration Event with BIPOC OC The Juneteenth Freedom Celebration will commemorate the federal holiday as a celebration of the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans in the United States.…
Read More »Summer Nights Are Upon Us! Make memories with friends and have endless fun in the sun filled with movies, crafts, and sports! Browse a complete offering of all Disability Services programs at yourirvine.org. For questions, call 949-724-6637. …
Read More »Skate into Summer Since its genesis, skateboarding has been considered an iconic cultural symbol and an intricate competitive sport. From music to film, fashion and more — skateboarding has had a profound legacy. Opening Sunday, June 4, the…
Read More »Adventure is Out There! Registration is open for Great Park Summer Camps. Make this summer incredible. At Great Park, we are offering week-long summer camps that are sure to spark your child’s imagination, foster critical thinking skills, and…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (March 10, 2023): On March 7, Mayor Farrah N. Khan delivered her State of the City Address at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Topics included a review of 2022 accomplishments, as well as the vision for 2023 and beyond as one of the top…
Read More »Take Our Survey! Consider Transportation Alternatives on South Yale Avenue The community is invited to take our online survey to provide input on various bicycle and pedestrian-friendly alternatives to be considered for future development along…
Read More »The City of Irvine cordially invites you to attend the 2023 State of the City Address on Tuesday, March 7. This City event will begin with a free public reception at 5 p.m., followed by the State of the City Address at 6 p.m., where Mayor Farrah N.…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (March 2, 2023): The Irvine Fine Arts Center is pleased to announce its first exhibitions of the New Year: Aries Rising and North Node. The exhibitions run concurrently Saturday, March 11–Saturday, May 20. A free opening…
Read More »Support New Arrivals & Recuperating Animals during the Monthlong Foster Donation Drive The Irvine Animal Care Center invites the community to support its Foster Donation Drive, March 1–31. Support the center’s new puppies and…
Read More »The City of Irvine has announced plans to acquire and close the All American Asphalt plant, while also adding hundreds of acres of open space and a new residential housing village in North Irvine. The overall plan, which establishes the Gateway…
Read More »Attend The State Of The City Address Mayor Farrah N. Khan will deliver the City of Irvine's annual State of the City Address Tuesday, March 7, at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. This free event is open to the public. The reception begins at 5 p.m.;…
Read More »Monthlong Foster Donation Drive Supports Young Pets at Irvine Animal Care Center Support new arrivals and recuperating animals in the center’s Foster Care program. The Irvine Animal Care Center invites the community to support its Foster…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (February 24, 2023): Orange County United Way and the City of Irvine have partnered with Procurri and Ingram Micro to host an e-waste drop off recycling event on March 11, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Irvine Valley College located…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events…
Read More »Encourage your child to just keep strumming by signing up for a music class. The City of Irvine is offering several classes that teach children how to play a stringed instrument. Your child can learn easy chords and melodies on the guitar or…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (February 21, 2023): Irvine City Manager Oliver C. Chi has appointed two highly experienced employees to serve as Assistant City Managers. Former Deputy Director of Human Resources Brian King and former Great Park Executive Director…
Read More »We are March-ing along in 2023! Get together with friends at Sweet Shade Ability Center for games, art, and our Shamrock Festival. Game Night? Join us for a fun-filled night of games, laughter, and entertainment. Snacks provided.?Ages 10+.?? …
Read More »Applications are available starting Wednesday, February 15, and are due by 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 15. IRVINE, Calif. (February 17, 2023): The City of Irvine is accepting applications to fill two community member-at-large vacancies on the Irvine…
Read More »State of the City is March 7 Mayor Farrah N. Khan will deliver the State of the City Address on Tuesday, March 7, at the Irvine Barclay Theatre (4242 Campus Drive, Irvine). This City event will begin with a free public reception at 5 p.m.,…
Read More »City of Irvine State of the City Address will take place March 7 at the Irvine Barclay Theatre Irvine Mayor Farrah N. Khan will deliver the State of the City Address on Tuesday, March 7, at the Irvine Barclay Theatre (4242 Campus Drive,…
Read More »A new season is almost here — is your family ready to spring into camp? Sign up for a variety of spring camps taking place March 27 to April 7 for children as young as 4 years old. Your child will have endless fun with activities, games,…
Read More »Spring 2023 Inside Irvine is Here Registration for spring classes and activities, as well as summer camps, in Irvine begins Tuesday, February 15, at yourirvine.org. The spring issue of Inside Irvine is available now at insideirvine.org. Learn…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (February 9, 2023): The City of Irvine is launching a grant program for local emerging nonprofits that provide services and programs to the Irvine community. Potential grantees may be awarded $30,000 to $60,000. Applications for the…
Read More »City of Irvine Day at Bren Events Center set for February 18 Residents invited to watch UC Irvine men’s basketball team play UC Davis. The University of California, Irvine is collaborating with the City of Irvine to host City of Irvine…
Read More »Read the spring edition of ArtBeat for the latest information on Irvine Fine Arts Center art exhibitions, classes, activities, and programs. Registration for winter programs opens February 15. For the most updated information and class…
Read More »Help your child foster a love for animals and nature! The City of Irvine is offering several classes for kids to explore habitats and animal characteristics or learn how they can have a positive impact on the environment. Children can make…
Read More »The Saddleback-Mission Viejo Elks Lodge #2444 was pleased to have initiated 12 new Members to the order last week. The Elks Organization is based on the principles of Brotherly Love, Justice, Charity, and Fidelity. The Elks promote the welfare and…
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »Learn about Life on the Base Through Photos and Music at the Great Park Gallery An opening reception for the historical photography art exhibition will be held February 19, accompanied by a live music series. The City of Irvine is pleased to…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (January 31, 2023): The City of Irvine is pleased to present Life on the Base: MCAS El Toro, a historical photography exhibition at the Great Park Gallery. An opening reception will be held Sunday, February 19, 1–3 p.m. A…
Read More »Drop off donations February 1–28 to benefit members of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion. Help support the single Marines, single parents, and geographic bachelors of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion by donating…
Read More »Become a Irvine Fine Arts Center Studio Arts Festival Artist! The 2023 Studio Arts Festival exhibitor application is now available. The annual Irvine Fine Arts Center Studio Arts Festival is a one-day shopping event highlighting local artisans…
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »Take a look at the top things to do this month in Irvine. Celebrate Black History Month February is Black History Month. In Irvine, we celebrate our diversity and the many cultures that make up our resident base, including our Black community.…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (January 23, 2023): The City of Irvine, in partnership with Orange County United Way, is offering free tax preparation services to taxpayers who earned less than $60,000 in 2022. Qualifying taxpayers who live, work, or attend school…
Read More »Is your child s'mitten about learning? The City of Irvine offers a variety of educational classes to help them discover and learn new skills in art, science, and language. Register now at yourirvine.org. Sign up for educational classes in…
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »Sustainable Business Challenge The Irvine Green Business Program is pleased to present a Sustainable Business Challenge for businesses located in the City of Irvine to become Recognized Green Businesses! This is a FREE certification program to…
Read More »Take a dance class and learn to go with the flow! This winter, the City of Irvine is offering several dance classes for children and pre-teens ages 4–12. Students will learn to channel energy and fun into rhythm and steps, while also…
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »Inspire your creativity! This winter, the City of Irvine is hosting cartooning and drawing classes for children ages 8–15. These classes offer opportunities for participants to learn from creative experts how to draw famous cartoon characters.…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural…
Read More »After a national recruitment, seasoned finance professional Dahle Bulosan has been named Director of Administrative Services for the City of Irvine. Bulosan has more than 23 years of progressive finance experience and is joining Irvine from the…
Read More »Take a look at the top things to do this upcoming month in Irvine. Volunteer For Meals On Wheels Irvine Senior Services needs your help. Volunteer Meals on Wheels drivers, ages 21 and older, are needed to help deliver nutritious meals to…
Read More »Enjoy the Trails at Great Park The Great Park Trails feature 1.5 miles of walking and biking space throughout the Upper Bee and Bosque area. The Great Park Trails include decomposed granite pedestrian trails that are 4 to 6 feet wide, as well as…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events…
Read More »Checkmate! The City of Irvine is hosting chess classes for children and teens ages 6–14 at a variety of skill levels. Participants will learn chess strategies, how to improve game play, gain self-confidence, and critical thinking skills. …
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »City of Irvine Wins 2022 Digital Cities Survey Award from Center for Digital Government Honorees elevated their municipalities’ resilience, while bolstering services and prioritizing engagement with their residents. The City of Irvine…
Read More »It's SNOW secret, Irvine has COOL classes. With a variety of tennis lessons and cricket for youth classes, your all-star will refine their skills through drills, decision-making competencies, and games; or, lace up their skates and discover the…
Read More »The City of Irvine was awarded a Top Workplaces 2022 honor and ranked No. 17 – on the list of Large Companies with 500 or more employees – in the 15th annual The Orange County Register’s list of Top Workplaces awards and magazine…
Read More »Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events and celebrations, and news of interest by…
Read More »City of Irvine Senior Services is seeking Meals on Wheels volunteers to deliver hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors in our community. Volunteers assist older adults in maintaining their independence by providing healthy, delicious meals to…
Read More »City of Irvine Completes Venta Spur Bicycle-Pedestrian Bridge Project The bridge connects the Woodbury Community to Great Park Neighborhoods, Portola High School, and Great Park. The City of Irvine completed the construction of the Venta Spur…
Read More »Sugar, spice, and everything nice — these are the ingredients of a recipe for a fun time. The City of Irvine offers a variety of kids' single-day holiday classes and activities that include custom gift wrap, edible craft making, and baking…
Read More »Welcome to the Community Link Newsletter Our weekly newsletter aims to keep residents and businesses connected to us and all that is going on in and throughout the City. You can connect with us and learn more about our community, cultural events…
Read More »IRVINE, Calif. (December 5, 2022):?The community is invited to the City of Irvine’s swearing-in ceremony for the newly-elected City Councilmembers Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. with a public reception beginning a 5:30 p.m.…
Read More »Celebrate the 'Holidayz' at Great Park Winter holiday fun is underway at Great Park featuring festive art, music, lights, interactive displays, photo backdrops, and seasonally themed events and programs. 'Tis the season for family fun and…
Read More »Climate Action & Adaptation Plan Public Workshop Save the date for the City of Irvine Climate Action & Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Public Workshop. Join us at 6:15 p.m., Tuesday, December 6, at the Irvine Civic Center — CTC for an…
Read More »The City of Irvine earned a perfect score of 100 — and nine bonus points — on the 2022 Municipal Equality Index (MEI), a Human Rights Campaign (HRC) rating system based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer,…
Read More »ENJOY THE TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Kick off the season with a Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Civic Center, and join us for an evening of holiday cheer. This free event includes visits with Santa, live music, games, crafts, and train rides. Saturday,…
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