This research had as objective to analyze which elements, present in the processes of conception, implementation and evaluation of the participative budget of Cambui (Brazil), potentiate or limit the validity of democratic principles and practices in the municipality, from the perspective of representatives of the local population. Data collection was done through interviews, non-participant observation and documentary research, and data were analyzed through content analysis. The results showed elements that contributed to the promotion of democratic principles and practices, such as inclusive citizenship, plurality of social actors and freedom of expression. Elements that favor the consolidation of local democracy, in a more definitive way, have also been observed. There is, however, need to improve the experience in specific aspects.