Key Dates

Friday, May 1, 2026

First day to file a nomination paper for the offices of Mayor, Councillor, and School Board Trustee during regular business hours. Upon filing:

•  the candidate can start raising and spending money for their campaign;
• preliminary spending limits provided to candidates running for Council or School Board; and,
• preliminary self-contribution limits provided to candidates running for Council (does not apply to School Board Trustee candidates).

First day to file a notice of registration as a third party advertiser.

• A third party advertiser cannot raise or spend money on their campaign, nor begin advertising, until their registration is certified by the City Clerk.
• Preliminary spending limits will be provided upon filing.

Friday, August 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Deadline for candidates to:

• file a nomination;
• withdraw a nomination; or
• file a nomination for a different office.

Monday, August 24, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

Deadline for the City Clerk to certify candidate nominations if satisfied that a person is qualified to be nominated and that the nomination complies with the Municipal Elections Act

Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Voters' list available to candidates upon written request

Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Final spending limits provided to candidates for Council or School Board, and registered third party advertisers.

Final calculation of maximum contributions to candidate’s own election campaign provided to candidates running for Council (does not apply to School Board Trustee candidates). 

October 19 – 26, 2026

Voting period begins with internet voting available for this period. Voter Assistance Centers will be open to assist electors with internet voting or to provide electors with their internet voting credentials. Additional details on designated Voter Assistance Centres is forthcoming.

Monday, October 26, 2026

Election Day.

• Internet and paper ballot voting methods available. 

Monday, November 16, 2026

Inaugural meeting of the 2026 – 2030 Term of Pickering City Council