They are all independent bodies, affiliated to The FA, but responsible for running all aspects of the game at the local level. Around 40,000 football clubs in total are affiliated to County FAs.
Many of the County FAs have been in existence from more than a century. Sheffield FA (now Sheffield & Hallamshire) was the first to be formed, in 1867, and was followed by Birmingham (1875), Surrey and Shropshire, both in 1877, Berks and Bucks, Cheshire and Lancashire (all 1878). The key administrative functions of County FAs revolve around the affiliation of local competitions and leagues, registration of players, organisation of match officials and administering of discipline.
Over recent years, Counties have expanded their activities and are now involved in developing the game at the local level, through initiatives such as coaching, Mini-Soccer, Girl's and Women's football, running training programmes for referees and First Aid courses.
Each County is working towards implementing a Development Plan, in conjunction with local partners. In each area, the County FA co-ordinates a Local Football Partnership, which brings together football and other partners to create and prioritise football facility and development plans for the region.
The latest stories from the County FAs can be found in the various news sections in this site.