Burnaby Bylaw: Candidate Nomination & Fees
This guide explains how to file as a candidate and what candidate-related fees and procedures apply in Burnaby, British Columbia. It covers eligibility, the nomination filing process with the City Clerk, typical documentation, timelines, and enforcement pathways so prospective candidates know where to file, what to submit, and how to meet legal deadlines.
Eligibility and who files
To run for municipal office in Burnaby you must meet the provincial eligibility rules (age, residency, and citizenship) and complete the city nomination documents with the City Clerk during the official nomination period. The City of Burnaby’s candidate information and nomination instructions are available from the City Clerk’s elections pages[1].
Nomination filing process
Nomination papers must be submitted to the City Clerk in person during the nomination period set for the election year. The City Clerk receives and certifies nomination papers, records the date and time of filing, and publishes candidate names once nominations close. Exact nomination period dates and office hours for filing are posted on the City of Burnaby elections page[1].
- Nomination period: see official City Clerk schedule; dates not specified on the cited page.
- Where to file: City Clerk’s office at City Hall or the location designated by the City for the election.
- Questions and submissions: contact the City Clerk via the City of Burnaby elections contact information.
Fees, deposits and campaign finance overview
The City of Burnaby candidate information page does not list a required nomination deposit or filing fee; details about campaign finance reporting and contribution limits are governed by provincial rules cited by the City where applicable. If a fee or deposit applies it will be stated on the City Clerk’s nomination instructions or the official nomination form; if not stated, assume none is required unless the City publishes otherwise[1].
- Nomination deposit/fee: not specified on the cited page.
- Campaign finance reports: filing requirements and deadlines may be set by provincial election finance legislation and City instructions; check the City Clerk resources for forms.
- Recordkeeping: candidates are expected to keep receipts and financial records as required by law and the City’s guidance.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of nomination filing and campaign finance obligations in Burnaby is handled by the City Clerk and by provincial authorities where provincial statutes apply. The City of Burnaby candidate information page does not state specific fine amounts or statutory sections for municipal nomination offences; monetary penalties and criminal or administrative sanctions may be set out in provincial statutes or in bylaws cited by the City[1].
- Typical sanctions: fines, orders to comply, and potential court action where offences are prosecuted (exact amounts not specified on the cited page).
- Escalation: first and repeat offences and continuing offence penalties are governed by applicable statutes or bylaws; the City page does not list ranges or schedules.
- Enforcer and complaints: the City Clerk is the primary contact for nomination filing complaints and compliance; contact details are on the City elections page[1].
- Appeals and reviews: appeal routes and time limits depend on the specific statute or bylaw; the City’s candidate instructions do not specify appeal deadlines.
- Defences and discretion: common defences can include reasonable excuse or clerical error; options for variances or relief are not specified on the City page.
Applications & Forms
The City Clerk provides nomination papers and candidate information packages; if a named form or form number is required it will be published by the City Clerk. The City of Burnaby candidate information page lists where to obtain nomination documents but does not publish a specific form number or fee on that page[1]. Submit completed nomination papers in person as required by the nomination instructions.
Common violations and practical penalties
- Failing to file nomination papers on time — may result in ineligibility to appear on the ballot; specific remedies not specified on the cited page.
- Poor or missing campaign finance records — may trigger orders or fines under applicable statutes; amounts not specified on the City page.
- Accepting prohibited contributions — subject to statutory penalties; check provincial campaign finance rules for details.
Action steps for prospective candidates
- Check eligibility and important dates with the City Clerk.
- Download or pick up the official nomination package from the City Clerk.
- File nomination papers in person during the nomination period and get a stamped receipt of filing.
- Keep detailed campaign finance records and file any required reports on time.
FAQ
- How do I get nomination papers?
- Contact the City Clerk and obtain the nomination package from the City of Burnaby elections resources[1].
- Is there a nomination fee or deposit?
- The City of Burnaby candidate information page does not list a nomination fee or deposit; check the City Clerk’s instructions for the current election[1].
- Who enforces nomination and campaign finance rules?
- The City Clerk handles nomination filings and initial compliance; provincial statutes may provide additional enforcement and penalties.
How-To
- Confirm your eligibility under provincial rules and the City’s guidance.
- Obtain the official nomination package from the City Clerk.
- Complete nomination papers accurately and gather any required signatures or declarations.
- File the nomination papers in person during the nomination period with the City Clerk and obtain proof of filing.
- Maintain campaign records and file any required financial reports by their deadlines.
Key Takeaways
- Start early: obtain the nomination package and confirm filing hours with the City Clerk.
- Check the City of Burnaby candidate page for current instructions and forms[1].
- Keep detailed financial records and meet reporting deadlines to avoid enforcement actions.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Burnaby - Elections and voting
- City of Burnaby - City Hall and City Clerk contact
- BC Laws - provincial statutes and regulations