How to vote

Voting in Guelph’s 2026 municipal election.

Guelph voters will elect the mayor, ward councillors, and school board trustees. Ward 5 voters select up to two city councillor candidates.

Who can vote?

You can vote in Guelph’s municipal election if you are at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen, reside in Guelph or own property in Guelph, or are the spouse of a Guelph property owner, and are not legally prohibited from voting.

In-person voting

Election Day is Monday, October 26, 2026. Polls are open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.. The City says voters can vote anywhere in their ward on Election Day, and City Hall will operate as a city-wide poll with accessible supports.

Advance voting

Advance voting runs October 10 to 18, 2026. City Hall is open for advance voting October 10–11 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., October 12–15 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and October 16–18 at City Hall plus one location in each ward.

Mail-in voting

Guelph has authorized vote by mail for the 2026 election. Eligible voters can request a vote-by-mail kit from September 1, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. until October 9, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.. Completed kits must be received by election officials no later than 8:00 p.m. on October 26, 2026.

Read the City of Guelph Vote by Mail Procedures PDF.

Bring identification

Bring identification showing your name and qualifying Guelph address. The City notes that acceptable documents may include an Ontario driver’s licence or photo card, government documents, tax assessment, or mail showing your name and address.

Important dates

Nomination period opens
Nominations close
Vote-by-mail kit request period
Advance voting
Election Day; polls open 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Official results, or as soon as possible
Term of office commences

Voting information is based on official City of Guelph municipal election resources. For the most up-to-date details, visit the City of Guelph election information page.