Information for Candidates

If you are thinking about running for local office the following information may help with  your decision:

Candidate financial and election advertising rules are listed with Elections BC. Also provided in the link are the following: Guide to Local Elections Campaign Financing in B.C. For Candidates and their Financial Agents; reference sheets; forms; online training; and information sessions for potential candidates. 

For any questions about the rules for local candidates call 1-800-331-8683 or email electoral.finance@elections.bc.ca 

Requirements to be a Candidate

To be nominated, elected and hold office as a member of local government, you must:

  • Be a Canadian citizen;
  • Be eighteen (18) years of age or older on general voting day (October 17, 2026);
  • Be a resident of British Columbia for at least six (6) months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed; and 
  • Not be disqualified by the Local Government Act or any other enactment from being nominated or, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law. 

Nomination Package

Nomination packages will be available beginning Tuesday, August 4, 2026 and may be picked up at the Municipal Hall between regular business hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding statutory holidays.

Completed candidate nomination documents must be delivered to the Chief Election Office or Deputy Chief Election Officer by the end of the nomination period at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026.

Additional Resources for Candidates