The City of Toronto will open nominations for mayoral candidates on Friday, May 1, 2026, marking the official start of the municipal election campaign. Aspiring candidates must file their nomination papers at city hall to be eligible for the ballot.
Key Dates and Requirements
Nominations will be accepted from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the elections office. Candidates must meet eligibility criteria, including being a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and a resident of Toronto. A nomination fee of $200 is required, along with signatures from at least 25 eligible electors.
What to Expect
The election is scheduled for October 24, 2026. Voters will elect a mayor and city councillors. The nomination period closes on August 21, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to review campaign finance rules and submit required disclosures.
Current Mayor Olivia Chow has not yet announced whether she will seek re-election. Several potential challengers have expressed interest, including former councillors and community activists. The race is expected to focus on housing affordability, transit, and public safety.
For more information, visit the City of Toronto elections website or contact the elections office.
