Run in the Election

Election Period Begins
January 1, 2026

Nomination and Endorsement Packages Available
August 2026 

Lead Well, Vote Wisely: A Workshop for Aspiring Candidates & Engaged Citizens
Christina Benty, Strategic Leadership Solutions
August 20, 2026 

Nomination Period Opens
September 1, 2026 at 9:00 am

List of Registerd Electors Available for Public Inspection
September 1, 2026 

Nomination Period Closes
September 11, 2026 at 4:00 pm

Last Day to Withdraw from being a Candidate
September 18, 2026 at 4:00 pm

Campaign Period Begins
September 19, 2026

Advance Voting Day
October 7 and 14, 2026

General Voting Day
October 17, 2026

Mail Ballot Voting Deadline
October 17, 2026

Council Orientation
Week of October 26, 2026 

A person is qualified to be nominated, elected, and to hold office as a member of local government if they meet the following criteria: 

• 18 years of age or older;  

• Canadian citizen; 

• resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed; and, 

• not disqualified by the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or from being nominated for, being elected to or holding office, or otherwise disqualified by law. 

Available August 1, 2026. 

The Province of British Columbia’s What Every Candidate Needs to Know guide provides practical information for individuals considering a run for mayor, councillor, or electoral area director in the 2026 General Local Elections. It outlines candidate eligibility, nomination requirements, key election dates, campaign financing and advertising rules, the role of financial and official agents, voting procedures, and post-election obligations. The guide emphasizes that elected officials are stewards of community assets who must work collaboratively, comply with legislative and ethical requirements, understand the distinction between governance and administration, and be prepared to engage with the public throughout the election process and their term in office. 

View the Guide

The Province of British Columbia’s Thinking About Running for Local Office? guide provides an overview for prospective candidates considering a role on a municipal council or regional district board. It explains eligibility requirements, the responsibilities of local governments, the roles of elected officials, and the importance of ethical, collaborative, and community-focused leadership. The guide emphasizes that elected officials are responsible for making collective decisions on services, planning, infrastructure, and community priorities, while working effectively with staff, First Nations, other governments, and the public; it also encourages prospective candidates to learn about their community, attend meetings, review local government plans and policies, and understand the legislative framework before seeking office. 

View the Guide

This following webpage explains the nomination process, financial disclosure obligations, election campaign requirements, and the rules governing campaign financing and election advertising, all of which are established through provincial legislation. 

It also provides guidance and resources for prospective candidates, emphasizes the importance of responsible conduct by elected officials, and links to key legislation and Elections BC resources that support candidates throughout the election process.

View the Website

Provincial election information, guidance materials, and candidate resources. 
Available Here

 Campaign financing, election advertising rules, and disclosure requirements. 
Available Here

Training, education, and resources for elected officials and prospective candidates.  
Available Here  And Here

 Information about local governments, election contacts, and local government governance. 
Available Here. And Here