2026 Election Logo 250x350Eligibility

To be eligible to run as a candidate for Mayor or Councillor you must meet all of the following criteria:

  • 18 years of age or older on general voting day;
  • A Canadian citizen;
  • A resident of British Columbia for at least six months;
  • Not disqualified from voting in an election in BC or from being nominated, elected to or holding office, or otherwise disqualified by law.

There is no requirement for a candidate to be a resident or property owner in the municipality.

Nomination Process

The Nomination Period is from September 1 to September 11 (excluding weekends).

Nomination packages are now available at City Hall (410 Esplanade) or online. Please see our Nomination Package web page for more information.

All submitted nomination papers are available for public inspection will be available online and at City Hall once the nomination period opens.

Elections BC oversees campaign financing, financial disclosure and campaign advertising rules.

Questions? Please contact vote@ladysmith.ca.

CANDIDATE INFORMATION SESSIONS

To help prospective candidates navigate the election process, the Town, in partnership with the Cowichan Valley Regional District, is offering two virtual Candidate Information Sessions on Wednesday, August 12 at 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

Hosted by the Cowichan Valley Regional District, these two-hour sessions will cover essential information for running for local government, including campaign requirements, the election process, and the responsibilities of elected officials. There will also be a Q&A period at the end of each session.

No prior registration is required. Simply click on the link below for your preferred session time to attend.

12:00 pm session link

6:00 pm session link

Want to learn more about being a candidate in Ladysmith? Check out our Ladysmith Candidate Key Information guide, which provides an overview of the Town of Ladysmith's organizational structure, long-term priorities as well as what it is like to serve on council and the process for becoming a candidate in our community.

Guide: Ladysmith Candidate Key Information

Resources

Thinking of running? Below is a list of resources to help you decide whether public office is right for you.

Province of BC

  1. General Local Elections 101
  2. Thinking About Running for Local Office?
  3. Being an Effective Elected Official
  4. Who Does What in Local Elections
  5. Responsible Conduct

Town of Ladysmith

Important Links