City Council serves as the Legislative Branch or law-making body of the city. The council sets policy and appoints the City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk and a variety of boards and commissions necessary to operate local government. The nine members of City Council are elected to four-year terms at staggered elections during even numbered years. On July first of each even numbered year, City Council elects the Mayor and Vice-Mayor from its members.

The City Manager is appointed by City Council for an indefinite term and serves as the chief executive officer of the city. The City Manager appoints executive department heads and other city officials not appointed by council. The City Manager and department heads serve as the Executive Branch of City government.

The Judicial Branch of City Government is appointed by the Virginia General Assembly in the form of judges for Danville's Circuit Court, General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.