Hightstown operates under the Borough form of government, the largest single form of municipal government in use in New Jersey. Under this form, the Mayor, elected directly by the voters, is the head of Borough government and recommends to council such measures as he deems necessary for the welfare of the Borough.

The Mayor is the head of Borough government and serves on a part-time basis. The Mayor is elected for a four-year term. He or she nominates appointees to boards and commissions of the Borough, most of which are subject to the ratification of Council, and presides over meetings of the Borough Council. The Mayor may vote on actions being considered by the Council only to break a tied vote.

The Borough Council is the legislative body of Borough government. The Council is comprised of six members, two of whom are elected at-large each year to three-year terms. The Council is responsible for passing ordinances, adopting operating budgets, and approving appointments made by the Mayor.