Otley is in West Yorkshire and part of Leeds City Council. It is close to the boundary of Bradford City Council and the River Wharfe running through the town, also marks the boundary with North Yorkshire and Harrogate Council area.
Otley has its own Town Council and there are also a number of Parish Council based in neighbouring villages .
The Parliamentary Constituancy is North West Leeds and the town is represented on the Leeds City Council by 3 Ward Councillors.