Even though youth work is integral to national youth policy priorities in Norway responsibility rests at the local level. Youth work is a municipal responsibility, determined and financed at local level. This applies to outreach activities and to youth centres/clubs and open youth work.

Youth work is primarily defined in terms of leisure activities [fritid] which denotes anything from membership-based activities to open meeting places for young people such as youth clubs or recreational centres.

The Ministry of Children and Families is responsible youth policy, including youth work. However, the Ministry of Culture also has an important role, primarily through policy relating to the voluntary sector.