Are you eligible to vote?
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be a Canadian citizen
- Reside or own property in Guelph, or be a spouse of a property owner in Guelph
- Not be prohibited from voting under Section 17(3) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996
What identification is accepted?
Identification must include your name and qualifying Guelph address. One piece that shows both, or a combination of documents that show both, is acceptable. Some common documents that fit this requirement include:
- An Ontario driver’s licence or Ontario Photo Card
- A piece of identification that shows your name and address
- Any other document from the Government of Canada, Ontario or a municipality in Ontario or from an agency of such a government that shows your name and address
- Any document from a Band Council in Ontario established under the Indian Act (Canada)
- An income tax assessment notice
- A piece of mail with your name and address on it (for example, but not limited to, a utility bill, a pay stub, a letter from your bank)
Voter Notification Card
If you are on the Voters’ List, you will be mailed a voter notification card. It is helpful if you bring your voter notification card with you to the polls but it cannot be used as proof of identity. Acceptable documents originally in digital format can be shown on a mobile phone or device and will be accepted for voter identification.
Update your Voter Information
Elections Ontario maintains the Permanent Register of Electors for Ontario, commonly known as the Voters’ List. The Voters’ List is a list of who is eligible to vote in provincial and municipal elections in Ontario. To check if you are on the List, or to update or add your name to the List, visit Elections Ontario
Update your school support designation by June 1, 2026 and be ready to cast your vote.
Who makes up City Council in the City of Guelph?
The City of Guelph has a City Council made up of thirteen elected officials consisting of the Mayor and twelve City Councillors. Each of these positions is elected during a municipal election.
How is the Mayor elected?
The position of Mayor is elected at-large, meaning across the entire City.
How are City Councillors elected?
There are six Wards in the City of Guelph, and City Councillors in Guelph are elected by Ward. Each voter selects up to two candidates when voting.
How are School Board Trustees elected?
School Board Trustees are selected based on the school board you qualify to vote for. Any changes to school board preferences should be made up to June 1, 2026, and can be made through the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).
Guelph residents elect school board trustees for the following school boards. Only one option will appear on your ballot, depending on the school board you qualify to vote for:
- Upper Grand District School Board (English-Public)
- Wellington Catholic District School Board (English-Separate)
- Conseil Scolaire Viamonde (French-Public)
- Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir (French-Separate)