North Cowichan’s next General Local Election will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
General local elections in British Columbia are held every four (4) years on the third (3rd) Saturday in October, in accordance with section 52 of the Local Government Act.
In North Cowichan, voters will elect:
- One (1) Mayor
- Six (6) Councillors
- Seven (7) School Trustees
These elected officials set priorities for the community and oversee decisions that impact local programs, services, and long-term planning.
Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor & Council.
View the current Council
Why vote?
Voting is your opportunity to help shape the future of North Cowichan and have a say in decisions that affect your community.
- Support the priorities and issues that matter most to you
- Help guide how local services and infrastructure are planned and delivered
- Ensure your perspectives are represented in Council decisions
Your vote is an important part of how North Cowichan grows and evolves. Make your voice count.
Key dates - 2026 General Local Election
| Date | Action or Deadline |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2026 | Start of Election Period |
| July 20, 2026 | Start of Pre-Campaign Period |
| July 31, 2026 | Deadline to apply to register an elector organization |
| August 18, 2026 | Deadline for voter registration with Elections BC |
| September 1, 2026 | Start of Nomination Period |
| September 11, 2026 | End of Nomination Period |
| September 11, 2026, after 4:00pm | Declaration of Candidates |
| September 18, 2026, by 4:00pm | Candidate Nomination Withdrawal Deadline |
| September 18, 2026 | End of Pre-Campaign Period |
| September 18, 2026 | End of Election Period (12:00 Midnight) |
| September 19, 2026 | Start of Campaign Period (12:01 a.m.) |
| September 21, 2026, at 4:00pm | Declaration of election by voting or acclamation |
| October 7, 2026 | Required Advance Voting Opportunity |
| October 13, 2026 | Required Advance Voting Opportunity |
| October 17, 2026 | General Voting Day |
| October 17, 2026 | End of Campaign Period |
| October 21, 2026 | Last Day for Declaration of Official Election Results by Voting |
| November 20, 2026 | Close of Public Inspection of Nomination Documents & Voting Day Materials |
| November 20, 2026 | End of Period for Application to the Supreme Court to Invalidate Election* |
| December 4, 2026 | Deadline to Make Oath of Office |
| January 15, 2027 | End of Period to File Campaign Financing Disclosure Statement with Elections BC |
Visit Past Elections to learn about previous elections and by-elections in North Cowichan, including voter turnout, candidate results, and official declarations.