On a government website, not every user has the same level of access. WordPress uses roles to control what each person can edit, publish, or manage.

Understanding what you can and cannot modify helps prevent accidental changes, protects site security, and ensures public information remains accurate.

This guide explains how permissions work and what to expect based on your role.

Why Access Is Limited

Government websites often include:

• Public notices

• Council meeting agendas and minutes

• Legal documents

• Policy updates

• Emergency alerts

• Department pages

Because this information affects the public, access must be carefully controlled.

Limiting permissions helps:

• Prevent accidental deletion

• Protect legal records

• Maintain compliance

• Preserve content integrity

• Reduce cybersecurity risk

If you do not see certain options, it is usually intentional.

What Administrators Can Edit

Administrators have full access.

They can edit:

• All pages and posts

• All media files

• Menus

• Themes

• Plugins

• Site settings

• User accounts

• URL structures

They can also:

• Install new functionality

• Modify design elements

• Change system-wide configuration

Administrator access should be limited to IT staff or authorized web administrators.

What Editors Can Edit

Editors can manage content but cannot change system settings.

Editors can:

• Create and edit all pages

• Publish content

• Edit other users’ content

• Upload and manage media

• Manage menus (depending on configuration)

Editors cannot:

• Install plugins

• Change themes

• Modify core site settings

• Manage other users’ roles

On government sites, this role is often assigned to communications or public information staff.

What Authors Can Edit

Authors can manage their own published content.

Authors can:

• Create posts

• Edit their own posts

• Publish their own posts

• Upload media

Authors cannot:

• Edit other users’ content

• Edit most pages

• Manage menus

• Access plugins or settings

On many government websites, Authors are used for department announcements.

Note: Authors typically do not manage core pages like “City Council” or “Public Works” unless configured otherwise.

What Contributors Can Edit

Contributors can write content but cannot publish it.

Contributors can:

• Create new posts

• Edit their own drafts

Contributors cannot:

• Publish content

• Upload media

• Edit other users’ work

• Modify pages

• Change menus or settings

Their content must be reviewed and published by an Editor or Administrator.

This is often ideal for:

• Department staff submitting updates

• Administrative assistants drafting notices

• Interns preparing announcements

What Subscribers Can Edit

Subscribers have minimal access.

They can:

• Log in

• Edit their own profile

They cannot:

• Create content

• Edit pages

• Access most dashboard areas

Most public government websites do not rely heavily on this role unless restricted areas exist.

Why You May Not See Certain Options

If you cannot see:

• The Plugins menu

• The Appearance menu

• Certain pages

• Other users

• Menu editing tools

It is likely because your role does not permit it.

This is normal and intentional.

Do not assume something is broken.

What Happens If You Try to Access Restricted Areas

If you attempt to access something beyond your permissions, you may see:

• An error message

• A blank page

• A message saying you do not have sufficient permissions

If you believe you need access, contact your site administrator rather than trying to work around restrictions.

Shared Responsibility in Government Websites

Each role carries responsibility.

• Editors are responsible for reviewing and publishing accurate information.

• Authors are responsible for drafting accurate department updates.

• Administrators are responsible for maintaining system stability and security.

Role-based editing ensures accountability.

Common Questions

Why can’t I edit a page that belongs to my department?

The page may be restricted to Editors or Administrators.

Why can I create posts but not pages?

Your role may be Author or Contributor.

Why can’t I upload images?

Contributors do not have media upload permissions by default.

Why can’t I delete content?

Deletion privileges may be restricted to protect public records.

Best Practices for Working Within Your Role

• Focus on the sections you are authorized to manage

• Do not attempt to bypass restrictions

• Submit requests for access changes formally

• Review content carefully before publishing

• Ask questions when unsure

Role clarity protects both you and the organization.

A Typical Government Role Structure

For example:

• IT Department → Administrator

• Communications Director → Editor

• Department Heads → Editor or Author

• Staff Contributors → Contributor

This structure balances flexibility with oversight.

Summary

Your WordPress role determines what you can and cannot edit.

• Administrators control the system.

• Editors manage content broadly.

• Authors manage their own posts.

• Contributors draft content for review.

• Subscribers have minimal access.

If you cannot see or edit something, it is usually due to your assigned role.

Understanding these boundaries ensures your government website remains secure, accurate, and compliant.