The next general local election will be held on October 17, 2026. The elected candidates will serve a four-year term ending in October 2030.
To qualify as a candidate, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or older on general voting day
- Be a Canadian citizen
- Be a resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately preceding the day nomination papers are filed
- Not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from being nominated for, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.
To run as a candidate for the office of Mayor or Councillor, an individual must be nominated by at least two (2) people who are qualified electors of the District of Oak Bay. These individuals may be resident electors or non-resident property electors.
Questions about running as a candidate in the upcoming election? Contact the Chief or Deputy Chief Election Officer
Upcoming Events and Resources
Information Session (Elections BC)
July 30, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Financing and Advertising Rules
Elections BC is offering information sessions for local candidates on financing and advertising. These sessions will provide candidates with information regarding the rules in the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act.
Online Courses (Elections BC)
Elections BC offers online courses that are designed to help explain the rules and requirements under the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act for the following regulated participants:
- Elector organizations
- Candidates
- Third party sponsors
Who Does What?
We’ve assembled a chart outlining the various roles and responsibilities of government. While there are many services provided by all levels, this chart will help illustrate the role of municipalities.
Steps to Success:
Explore the Elections BC Website
Find out “Who Does What in Local Elections” and review detailed information on new campaign financing and advertising rules.
Please note – Elections BC administers campaign financing, disclosure, and election advertising rules under the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act
Political Campaign Activity
Read the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioners Guidance Document: Political Campaign Activity
Find Resources
Visit the “Thinking of Running for Local Office?” page on the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs website to explore helpful videos, guidance and resource documents on local government, local decision making and roles & responsibilities of local elected officials
Election Signage
Get to know new regulations for 2026 regarding where you can place election signs.
Review our Plans and reports
Review key guiding municipal plans and documents on the District of Oak Bay website, under Plans and Reports
Respectful Workplace
Oak Bay is committed to providing a work environment in which all individuals are treated with mutual dignity and respect. View our Respectful Workplace Policy on the Bylaws and Policies page of the municipal website.