Deadline to register as a candidate in the upcoming municipal election is August 21

HAMILTON, ON – Any person who wishes to run as a candidate for mayor, city councillor or school board trustee in the 2026 municipal election must file a nomination package in person with the Office of the City Clerk by 2 pm on Friday, August 21.

A nomination package should be submitted via an in-person appointment. To book an appointment to file nomination papers, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 905-546-4365 or email [email protected]. Potential candidates can also book an appointment through the online portal.

Potential candidates must ensure they bring the following to their appointment:

• Completed nomination papers
• A minimum of 25 declarations of endorsement for mayoral and councillor candidates
• Current, acceptable identification
• A nomination filing fee of $200 for mayoral candidates or $100 for candidates for councillor or school board trustee. Nomination fees are refunded to candidates once they file the required financial statements. Payments may be made by cash, debit, certified cheque or money order.

August 21 is also the last day for registered candidates to withdraw their candidacy.

If a candidate no longer wishes to run in the 2026 municipal election, they must file a Withdrawal of Nomination Form in person before the end of the nomination period. Candidates may not withdraw after the nomination period has closed. Candidates who have withdrawn their nomination are still required to file a financial statement.

All candidates for the 2026 municipal election will be certified by Monday, August 24.

For the most up-to-date information on the 2026 municipal election in Hamilton, please visit Municipal Election.

• The 2026 Municipal Election will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026.
• For questions about the election, residents can call 905-546-4365 or email [email protected].
• Community outreach events, with the goal of educating residents about the upcoming election, are being held across the city. For more information, visit Municipal Election