Police sealed off Aberdeen Town House after a suspicious package was found.
Emergency services were called after the discovery was made shortly before 4pm today.
The package is not thought to be of any threat to the wider public.
Chief Inspector David Howieson said: “A substance was recovered, which has ultimately been found not to be harmful and there is no threat to the public.
“Inquiries will now be carried out into the full circumstances.
“I would like to thank the public for their patience as emergency services responded to this incident.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said: “We can confirm a suspicious package within Aberdeen City Council offices at the Town House has been reported to Police Scotland.
“The health, safety and wellbeing of the public, staff, elected members and all those who use our buildings is our priority and as such the site has been evacuated as a precaution, in line with established council security protocol.
“We would ask members of the public to remain clear of the area whilst this incident is investigated by the relevant authorities.”
Aberdeen Town House evacuated and public asked to avoid the area after suspicious package found