Kanowit got its name from a minor ethnic group called 'Kanowits' who stayed here long time ago. This group is considered strong and brave but they don't found today. Kanowit District Council (named Kanowit Sea Dayak Local Authority) was established in 1949. It’s located at Shop No. 50 Kanowit town, more commonly knows as a ‘Bilik Tukang Kambuh’. 

In 1950, Council office moved to Kanowit Clinic Building where ‘Market Serbaguna’ now. In 1957, Council got its new name 'Kanowit District Council' under Section 6 & 7, State Elections Ordinance (Cap.7). 

On 5 October 1967, Council office moved to present site (Jalan Kubu, opposite Ford Emma) after new office completed. 

Initially the Council’s Chairman appointed by the State Government or Representatives through elections. Since 1980, District Officer automatically appointed as Council’s Chairman and Secretary as the Head of Department. 

Below is the list of Chairman and Secretaries who has served in Kanowit District Council: