Candidacy Information
Run for Office in New Westminster
Learn how to run for Mayor, Councillor, or School Trustee in New Westminster, including eligibility, nomination packages, filing deadlines, and campaign financing rules.
Who can run
To run for Mayor, Councillor, or School Trustee in New Westminster, you must meet the following criteria:
- 18 years of age or older on General Voting Day;
- Canadian citizen;
- resident of BC for at least 6 months prior to date of nomination; and
- not disqualified under the Local Government Act or another enactment.
Other important information:
- You don't need to live in New Westminster to be a candidate
- At least two qualified City of New Westminster electors must nominate you
Nomination packages
Nomination packages are available for download or pickup by request at City Hall.
Each package includes required forms, filing instructions, key dates, and local information for candidates.
Download The City Council & Mayor Candidate Nomination Package
Download The School Trustee Candidate Nomination Package
Candidates should read the full nomination package before filing.
File your nomination package
File your nomination package with the Elections Office during the Nomination Period: 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 to 4:00 pm on Friday, September 11, 2026.
Late nomination packages cannot be accepted.
You may file by email, mail, or in person. Candidates are encouraged to book an in-person appointment to confirm receipt and reduce the risk of last-minute issues.
Appointments for in-person filing open August 20, 2026. Book by using the online contact form or by calling the Elections Office at 604-527-4618.
When filing in person, bring:
- your completed nomination package;
- required identification;
- your appointment confirmation, if applicable; and
- a digital copy of your candidate photo and statement.
Campaign financing and advertising
Elections BC administers campaign financing and advertising rules under the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act, including rules for contributions, expenses, expense limits, advertising sponsorship, disclosure statements, and third-party advertising.
All candidates, whether elected or not, must file campaign financing disclosure statements with Elections BC after the election.
For campaign financing questions, contact Elections BC.
Phone: 1-855-952-0280