This information is for candidates at any election of councillors of an English district, borough or unitary authority. It is only general guidance and not a comprehensive statement of law.

Qualifications for candidates

To qualify to become an elected member of the council you must be:

• 18 years of age or over at the date of your nomination
• a Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, or a citizen of another member state of the European Community,

and either:

• be a local government elector (voter) for the area of the authority, or
• have during the whole of the 12 months preceding the day on which you are nominated as a candidate occupied as owner or tenant any land or other premises in the area of the authority, or
• have your principal or only place of work in the 12 months preceding the day on which you are nominated as a candidate in the area of the authority, or
• have lived in the area of the authority during the whole of the 12 months preceding the day on which you are nominated as candidate.

There are certain things that disqualify you from becoming a candidate according to law, the main ones are:

• Holding a paid office under the local authority, or a politically restricted post
• Bankruptcy
• Having been sentenced to a term of imprisonment, whether suspended or not, of 3 months, without the option of a fine during the 5 years preceding the election, and
• Being disqualified under any enactment relating to corrupt or illegal practices.

Frequency of elections

Aylesbury Vale District Council elections take place every 4 years. Elections are held on the first Thursday in May (unless altered by the Secretary of State). Generally speaking a by election may be held at any time, except within 6 months of an election.

Standing as a candidate

Election packs for those standing as candidates are available from the electoral office. It contains guidance for candidates together with relevant forms.

Other elections

The Electoral Office is also involved in organising other elections locally for the UK parliament, European parliament, county council and parish council elections. Procedures and arrangements vary depending on the type of election.

Date Updated: 04/03/08