Centralization in public administration means the organizational, hierarchical subordination of local authorities to central ones. Centralization ensures timely and efficient public services. At the same time no centralized system can meet the infinite variety of needs of local communities. Thus, decentralization of certain powers is necessary. Decentralization implies freedom of action for local authorities without sacrificing certain centralization. Currently, becomes more evident in Moldova the need of understanding the essence and the role of this principle in the activity of public administration.