The ICMA Code of Ethics was adopted by the ICMA membership in 1924, and most recently amended by the membership in April 2023. The Guidelines for the Code were adopted by the ICMA Executive Board in 1972, and most recently revised in June 2023.

The mission of ICMA is to create excellence in local governance by developing and fostering professional local government management worldwide. To further this mission, certain principles, as enforced by the Rules of Procedure, shall govern the conduct of every member of ICMA.