Made up of the fifteen municipalities on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the County of Barnstable was founded in 1685 and is one of the oldest Counties in the United States. The County of Barnstable is a special place, requiring special protection and special services managed cooperatively for the benefit of each community. This narrow land has a unique place in the national historical narrative and has been defined by the limitations and expanses of land and water. Cape Cod has always had one foot in the past and one foot in the future. The County of Barnstable focuses its attention on regional issues and resources that impact our coastal waters, environment, and public health and safety. We work hard to develop programs that educate and inform our residents. Our departments are vibrant and active across the Cape and beyond, providing information, support, and advocacy for environmental issues, technology innovation, emergency preparedness, and more. Visit us at capecod.gov