Candidate Information

Candidates 2026

Candidate Nomination Packages

The nomination period opens on Tuesday September 1 at 9:00 am. and closes on Friday, September 11 at 4:00 pm. It is recommended that candidates book a meeting with the Chief Election officer to review their nomination package (see contact information below). 

Thinking of running for local office? 

Candidate Information Night

Learn about what it is like to be on Council, how to submit your nomination papers and more at our Candidate Information Night. The Chief Election Officer and Corporate Officer will be on site to answer questions and share information about Council expectations and responsibilities and the election process.

Date: Thursday August 20, 2026

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Location: Fernie Senior Citizens Drop-In Centre – 562 3rd Avenue

Other important dates

January 1 to September 19, 2026

Election Period
Campaigns must report all expenses incurred during the election period

July 20 to September 18, 2026

Pre-campaign period
Election advertising rules come into force

September 19 to October 17, 2026

Campaign period

September 15, 2026

Deadline for challenge of nominations and electoral organization endorsements

September 18, 2026

Deadline for withdrawal as a candidate

Deadline for electoral organization endorsement or candidate withdrawal of the endorsement

September 18, 2026

Deadline to deliver original nomination documents—if previously emailed or faxed—to the Election Office

Are you eligible to run? 

To be eligible to run as a candidate, at the time of nomination, you must meet the following criteria:

  • 18 years or older on Election Day
  • Canadian citizen
  • resident of BC for at least six months prior to the date of nomination (August 30, 2026)
  • not disqualified by any act or law from voting in British Columbia, or from being nominated for, elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law

Other important notes for candidates:

  • You don’t need to live in the area to be a candidate.
  • If you currently work for the City of Fernie or the School District, you must take a leave of absence before being nominated.
  • Federal employees must apply to the Public Service Commission for permission.
  • At least two qualified City of Fernie electors (whose names must be on Election BC's list of electors) must nominate you per the Local Government Act.

Legislation

City Notices

Notice of Nomination

Have questions? 

Kevin Allen  
Chief Election Officer

Email: electionsofficer@fernie.ca

Phone: (250) 946-7138