The City of Courtenay is the municipal government serving Courtenay residents, providing core services like water, sewer, stormwater management, and solid waste collection with separate streams for garbage, recycling, and organics. They manage public infrastructure including roads, snow and ice control, active transportation networks, and EV charging stations. The city runs a fire department with prevention programs like FireSmart BC and coordinates with the Comox Valley RCMP on public safety. Building permits, development applications, zoning, and subdivision approvals all go through City Hall on Cliffe Avenue, which is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

On the recreation and culture side, the city operates several facilities including the Florence Filberg Centre, Lewis Centre, The LINC Youth Centre, and Courtenay Outdoor Pool. They offer drop-in fitness, adapted recreation programs, and the Building Friendships program for inclusive participation. Cultural amenities include the Comox Valley Art Gallery, Courtenay and District Museum, and Sid Williams Theatre. The city also runs the Simms Summer Concerts series and a Street Entertainer Program, adding to the community vibe downtown.

Recent infrastructure projects include the 6th Street Active Transportation Bridge currently under construction, the newly opened McPhee Meadows Park, and the Anderton Wall shoreline restoration along the waterfront. Residents can engage with city government by attending council meetings, submitting feedback on public hearings, or proposing agenda items. The city maintains active social media channels and feedback forms for public input. The Safe and Active Schools Travel Program supports traffic safety around schools, and transit connections are available through BC Transit’s Comox Valley system.