Kingston residents interested in municipal office encouraged to file nominations before Aug. 21 deadline

Kingston voters will elect a mayor, district councillors and school board trustees on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. Candidate nominations will close at 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21. 

We encourage potential candidates to book an appointment to file nomination papers to ensure time and staff are available to complete the process. 

Serving on City Council or a school board is an opportunity to help shape decisions that impact Kingston's neighbourhoods, services, infrastructure and future growth. 

Who can run for office 

To qualify as a candidate, you must: 

• Be a Canadian citizen 

• Be at least 18 years old 

• Live in Kingston, or own or rent property in Kingston (or be married to someone who does) 

• Not prevented from voting by any law 

Individuals interested in running for office can find information about nomination requirements, candidate responsibilities and important dates on Get Involved Kingston or at CityofKingston.ca/Election. 

All residents are also encouraged to visit RegisterToVoteON.ca before Aug. 12 to confirm, update or add your name to the voter's list in advance of the 2026 municipal election. Starting in September, residents will be able to do so on the City website – registering as soon as possible will ensure you are ballot-ready! 

More resources 

• Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Election Resources 

• Lead Where You Live: Guide to running for Municipal Office 

• 2026 candidates’ guide — Ontario municipal council and school board elections 

• Le Guide 2026 à l’intention des candidats et candidates — élections municipales et scolaires en Ontario 

• Feel informed and confident about running for office – watch the video recording of the April 26 candidate information session here.