Oklahoma Constitution Article XVII: COUNTIES
Here is a summary of Article XVII: Counties of the Oklahoma Constitution:
🗂️ Oklahoma Constitution – Article XVII: Counties
This article governs the organization, modification, and management of counties within the state of Oklahoma.
🔹 Section 1: Existing Counties Recognized
All counties in existence at the time of statehood (November 16, 1907) are officially recognized as legal subdivisions of the state.
🔹 Section 2: New Counties – Creation and Requirements
New counties may be created by law, but only if they meet the following criteria:
Must contain at least 400 square miles.
Must have a population of at least 6,000 people.
Must be approved by a majority vote of the residents in the affected areas.
🔹 Section 3: Changing County Boundaries
Boundaries of existing counties can be changed, but:
The change must be approved by a majority vote in each county affected.
The change must not reduce any county below the minimum area or population required by Section 2.
🔹 Section 4: County Seats
The county seat (the administrative center of a county) may be moved, but only by:
A vote of the people in that county.
A two-thirds majority vote is generally required to relocate it.
This article ensures that counties are geographically viable, democratically governed, and that any structural changes involve citizen approval.
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