FAQ & Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the election period?

The election period begins on January 1, 2022, and ends on September 16, 2022. During this period anyone who intends to become a candidate must track and report all campaign expenses incurred during this time. Elections BC manages this process and all financial recording requirements. For further information, please visit Elections BC or call 1-800-661-8683.

How do I run for local office?

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

be 18 years of age or older on October 15, 2022;
be a Canadian citizen;
be a resident of BC in accordance with legislation, for at least 6 months immediately before October 15, 2022 (April 14, 2022); and
not be disqualified from voting under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from being nominated for, being elected to or holding office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.

A person is ineligible to run for office in a general local election or by-election if they:

have been convicted of and sentenced for an indictable offence and are in custody;
have been found guilty of an election offence, such as intimidation or vote-buying, and are prohibited from holding office;
are judges of the Provincial Court, Supreme Court or Court of Appeal;
are involuntarily confined to a psychiatric facility or other institution;
have been disqualified for specified reasons such as failing to file a candidate disclosure statement in a previous election, failing to make an oath of office, or failing to attend local government meetings in the manner and frequency required by the Community Charter;
have been otherwise disqualified from being nominated for, elected to or holding office under the Local Government Act, Community Charter, Local Elections Campaign Financing Act or any other enactment or law.