The Village Council consists of the Mayor and six Village Commissioners who are elected-at-large.

The Fire Department provides 24-hour fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services. Specialized areas include hazardous materials response and technical rescue in confined spaces, structural collapse and high-rise structures.

Public Works provides services such as maintenance and management of the water system, traffic signals and signage, roads, stormwater and drainage systems, and parkway trees.

The Downers Grove Police Department is nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

The Village Manager is responsible for directing the operations of all Village departments to meet the vision, strategies and policies of the Village Council.

The Legal Department provides in-house legal services to the Village.

The Village Clerk is responsible for keeping records of Council meetings and policies and provides information to the public through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

The Finance Department ensures the financial integrity of the Village. They prepare financial statements, coordinate year-end financial audits, and assist with grant administration for the Village.

The Community Development Department consists of the Building and Planning Divisions.

The Human Resources Department coordinates employee selection and staffing, training and education programs, and administers employee compensation and benefits.

Information Technology oversees, maintains, and supports all computerized systems used by the Village.

The Communications Department provides information about Village programs and services through various forms of media.