The City of Norco is governed by a council/manager form of government. The council/manager plan is the system of government which optimizes the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of the council with the professional expertise of the local government manager. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and is the chief executive officer of the City. Working cooperatively, the City Council and City Administration strive to meet identified community needs, which include improving Norco's rural lifestyle, strengthening Norco's local economy and maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

The City Manager is responsible for the overall administration of the City organization and for administering programs and policies adopted by the City Council. The City Manager develops a recommended annual budget that identifies the program and service needs of the City and their related financial, personnel and capital improvements. The City Manager also serves as the Executive Director of the Redevelopment Agency and the Emergency Services Manager.

The City Manager oversees the City's public safety contracts, including CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department and the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, and appoints all Department Heads to assist in coordinating the City's administrative activities and the day-to-day supervision of City departments.