Luzerne County is one of seven Pennsylvania Counties that is incorporated under its own Home Rule Charter, created pursuant to the Home Rule and Optional Plans Law.  The County Charter was approved by referendum during the November 2, 2010, general election. The principal purposes of the Charter is to provide for the health, safety, and well-being of the citizens of Luzerne County and to secure for the citizens of Luzerne County the greatest degree of home rule and residual powers possible.

The Charter outlines the structure of Luzerne County government.  This new form of government calls for an eleven member County Council who act as the legislative branch of the County.  The power and duties of the Council include adopting, repealing, and/or amending ordinances, resolutions, and motions; levying taxes and assessments; creating divisions and departments; and, approving real estate transactions.  The Council also appoints a County Manager to oversee the County's day-to-day operational issues.