Background Material
Local government elections are held every three years and conducted by local governments under the legislative framework of the Local Government Act, the Vancouver Charter and the School Act. These provisions cover general elections and by-elections, as well as “other voting” (e.g. referendums).
Local government elections legislation covers municipalities, regional district electoral areas, school boards, Islands Trust, elected parks boards and community commissions – more than 1,660 elected positions providing representation to over 250 government bodies.
The Backgrounder on Local Government Elections (PDF 432KB) provides more information on the local government elections system.
Advisory materials on various aspects of local government elections are also available:
- Campaign Organizer & Elector Organization Guide to Local Elections in B.C. (PDF 307KB)
- Candidates Guide to Local Elections in B.C. (PDF 290KB)
- Local Elections in BC: Voter's Guide - English (PDF 150KB)
- Local Elections in BC: Voter's Guide - French (PDF 182KB)
- Local Elections in BC: Voter's Guide - Chinese (PDF 1.23MB)
- Local Elections in BC: Voter's Guide - Punjabi (PDF 1.62MB)
- School Trustee Election Procedures in British Columbia Guide (PDF 219KB)