1981 Dyfed County Council election

The second election to Dyfed County Council was held in May 1981. It was preceded by the 1977 election and followed by the 1985 election. There were a number of unopposed returns, particularly in rural parts of the county.

Overview
The Independents remained the largest party but lost ground to Labour.

In Pembrokeshire, Labour gained three seats from the Independents, although one of these - in Pembroke Dock - was from a former Labour councillor who stood as an Independent.

Cemaes No. 3
This ward was previously known as Narberth No.3 but was renamed following the transfer of several wards from South Pembrokeshire to Preseli District Council.

Pembroke No. 3
The previous Labour councilor stood as an Independent but was defeated by a future MP.

Carmarthen No. 1 by-election 1983
A by-election was held following the resignation of Labour councillor Tony Earle.