Request an Absentee Ballot - London, Ontario

Elections and Campaign Finance Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In London, Ontario, electors who cannot vote in person on election day may request an absentee (special) ballot through the City Clerk's elections services. This guide explains who is eligible, how to apply, practical deadlines, the office responsible for administering absentee voting, and what to do if you need to appeal or report a problem. For official procedures and the current application method, contact the City of London Elections office or consult the city voting page City of London - Voting & Elections[1].

Who can request an absentee ballot

Generally, voters who expect to be away from their ward on election day, who are physically unable to attend a voting place, or who require a ballot mailed to them for other valid reasons may be eligible for an absentee or special ballot. The City Clerk administers absentee voting for municipal elections in London.

How to request and submit a special/absentee ballot

  • Start early: request deadlines and processing times vary; check the city elections page before the election.
  • Application method: contact Elections Office to obtain the special ballot application; methods may include online request, mail, or in-person pickup.
  • Fees: no fee is typically required for municipal special ballots unless otherwise stated by the City Clerk; confirm on the official page.
  • Submission: follow the instructions on the application for where to return the completed ballot (mail or drop-off) and any identification required.
Contact the City Clerk as soon as you know you will be unable to vote in person.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City Clerk, acting as the returning officer for municipal elections, enforces the city's voting procedures and ensures ballots are handled according to statute and local rules. Specific monetary fines and penalty amounts for improper use of special ballots are not specified on the cited City of London voting page; offences under municipal election rules are governed by the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 and related regulations. For exact offence descriptions and statutory penalties consult the Municipal Elections Act or contact the Elections Office listed in Resources.

  • Enforcer: City Clerk (Elections Office) enforces absentee ballot procedures and investigates complaints.
  • Appeals and reviews: where applicable, processes and time limits for appealing decisions are set out by the City Clerk and by provincial statute; not specified on the cited city page.
  • Inspection and audit: ballots and records may be subject to municipal audit or recount procedures under election rules.
  • Escalation: information about first, repeat, or continuing offence penalties is not specified on the cited city page.
Offence descriptions and statutory penalties for election misconduct are set out in provincial law and by the returning officer's procedures.

Applications & Forms

The City of London publishes the application process for special or absentee ballots via the Elections Office; the exact form name or number and any applicable fee are not specified on the city voting page and should be confirmed with the Elections Office prior to applying. Submit completed applications according to the instructions provided by the City Clerk.

Action steps

  • Check the City of London voting page for current deadlines and application instructions City of London - Voting & Elections[1].
  • Contact the City Clerk or Elections Office to request the special ballot application and confirm ID requirements.
  • Complete and return the application by the method specified (mail or drop-off) before the stated deadline.
  • If required, pay any fees exactly as directed by the Elections Office; otherwise note that no fee is commonly required.
Keep proof of postage or a receipt when mailing your completed special ballot.

FAQ

Who administers absentee ballots in London?
The City Clerk's Elections Office administers special and absentee ballots for municipal elections in London.
Do I need to pay to request an absentee ballot?
The city voting page does not specify a fee; contact the Elections Office to confirm whether a fee applies for the current election.
How long before election day must I apply?
Deadlines change by election; check the City of London voting page or contact the Elections Office early to ensure timely submission.

How-To

  1. Confirm eligibility to request an absentee or special ballot through the City of London Elections Office.
  2. Obtain the official special ballot application from the Elections Office or the city voting page.
  3. Complete the application, include any required identification, and follow instructions for returning the ballot.
  4. Send or deliver the completed ballot according to the provided method before the deadline and retain proof of submission when possible.

Key Takeaways

  • Start the absentee ballot request early to meet deadlines.
  • Contact the City Clerk for the official application and ID requirements.
  • Keep documentation of submission and follow official city instructions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Voting & Elections

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