Land or holdings existing outside the formal structure of a municipality, city, or town are considered areas lacking independent local government. For example, a rural settlement existing outside official city limits could be deemed such an area, even with individual property owners. This distinguishes it from incorporated areas, which have established governance and defined boundaries.
Governance in these areas typically falls under the jurisdiction of a larger administrative body, such as a county or regional government. This can influence services like law enforcement, road maintenance, and zoning regulations. Historically, many areas remained outside incorporated municipalities due to lower population densities or remote locations. This status can offer advantages such as lower property taxes and greater autonomy regarding land use, but it can also mean fewer public services and infrastructure improvements.
