Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Local government elections shape the things you actually see every day, from snow plowing to parks to the speed limit on your street. The next general election is Saturday, October 17, 2026.
General Local Elections in BC are held every four years on the third Saturday of October. Castlegar elects a Mayor and six Councillors at each general election. Between general elections, by-elections may be called if a seat becomes vacant.
To vote in a Castlegar civic election, you must be:
Polling stations open on election day, with advance voting offered in the days leading up. The 2024 School Trustee By-Election used the Castlegar & District Community Complex (2101 6th Avenue) as the polling location, with voting from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Mail ballots are available by application for residents who can't attend in person.
Good to know
ID rules at the polls
Bylaw 1385 (Election Sign) sets the rules for where campaign signs can be placed during an election period. Candidates, supporters, and property owners need to follow it to avoid sign removal or fines. Read the bylaw before printing.
Council seats aren’t just for career politicians. Past Castlegar candidates have included teachers, tradespeople, small-business owners, and retirees. Anyone meeting the candidate qualifications under the Local Government Act and the Castlegar Local Government Election and Assent Voting Bylaw (Bylaw 1381) can run in a general election.
The Chief Election Officer publishes the official nomination period, candidate packages, and required forms ahead of each election. If you’re thinking about it, reach out early. Walking through the process with the CEO before the nomination window opens makes the paperwork far less daunting.
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