An Indian Reserve is land set apart and held by the federal Crown for the use and benefit of a First Nation (band) under the Indian Act. Reserves are not municipalities—they have different governance structures (band councils), fall under federal rather than provincial jurisdiction, and have distinct land tenure systems (land cannot be privately owned or sold outside the band). There are approximately 3,100 reserves across Canada, varying enormously in size, location, and population. Reserve governance operates under the Indian Act or through specific self-government agreements. Municipalities located near reserves often develop service-sharing arrangements and collaborative relationships, though jurisdictional complexities can create challenges. Reserve residents may access services in nearby municipalities while contributing to local economies. Understanding that reserves operate under different legal frameworks than municipalities is essential for comprehending Indigenous-municipal relations and the unique status of reserve lands in Canadian law.