A more thorough explanation:

A municipal charter is a written document that establishes the organizational structure and laws of a municipality. It makes the people living within a specific boundary a corporation and body politic, and outlines their powers, privileges, and duties. A city charter is an example of a municipal charter.

For example, a city charter may specify how the city government is organized, who has the power to make decisions, and what laws must be followed. It trumps all conflicting ordinances, meaning that if there is a conflict between a city ordinance and the city charter, the charter takes precedence.

Another example of a charter is a bank charter, which is a document issued by a governmental authority that permits a bank to conduct business. This is an example of a charter that creates a business or defines a corporate franchise.

Overall, a charter is an important document that establishes the highest laws of an organization or municipality, and grants rights, liberties, or powers to its citizens or members.