Getting ready to vote in the 2026 municipal election

On Monday, October 26, Durham Region residents will head to the polls to help decide who will lead their municipality and represent local priorities for the next four years. Taking part starts with one simple but important step: making sure you’re registered to vote.

What is a municipal election?

Municipal elections are held every four years, on the fourth Monday of October. Voting ballots will look a little different this year. The Province of Ontario has passed legislation making the selection of a Regional Chair an appointed position rather than an elected position, so you won’t see candidates for Regional Chair on your ballot this fall. However, in the municipal elections, voters will still choose:

Mayors and Councillors
School board trustees

Unlike provincial or federal elections, municipal elections in Ontario are non-partisan. This means candidates do not represent political parties – they run as individuals focused on local issues such as roads, recreation, housing, libraries, public safety and community programs and services.

The current term of Regional Council began in 2022 and ends this year. The officials elected this October will serve their communities until 2030.

Who can vote?

You may be eligible to vote in the municipal election if you meet the following criteria:

You are 18 years of age or older.
You are a Canadian citizen.
You are a resident of the municipality, or a property owner or tenant in the municipality or the spouse of a property owner or tenant.
You are not otherwise prohibited from voting.

Importantly, your name must be on the voters list to cast a ballot.

How to register to vote

Registering to vote is easy and taking a few minutes now can save you time on election day.

To confirm, update, or add your information to the voters list:

Visit Elections Ontario’s Voter Registration Service.
Check that your name, address, and school support information are correct.

Although the Province of Ontario sets common rules for municipal elections, each municipality is responsible for running its own election. Making sure your information is up to date helps ensure a smooth voting experience when election day arrives.

Why voting matters

Municipal government is the level of government closest to everyday life. Decisions made by Council and school boards directly affect:

Neighbourhoods and local infrastructure
Community services and programs
Schools and education priorities
Long-term planning and growth

Knowing how municipal elections work allows residents to better understand how local decisions are made and how they can help shape them. Voting builds stronger representation, more informed communities and a shared sense of responsibility for the place we call home. When residents participate, municipal government reflects a wider range of voices, experiences and needs. Each vote helps guide the future direction of the community.

Thinking about running?

Municipal elections are also an opportunity for residents to step forward as candidates. Eligible candidates must:

Be 18 years of age or older
Be a Canadian citizen
Be a resident, or non-resident property owner or tenant (or their spouse)
Not be legally prohibited from voting or holding office

Your voice. Your vote. Your community

Municipal elections are about more than ballots and bylaws – they’re about people shaping the future together. Registering to vote is a small action that makes a big difference. Your voice matters – especially in municipal elections. This is the level of government that shapes your everyday life, from the road you drive on to the water you drink and the services you rely on. Voting is your chance to influence the decisions that directly affect you and your community. Make it count – make sure you’re ready to take part and have your say in Durham Region’s next chapter.

Visit durham.ca/elections for more information.

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