Third Party Advertising

The Local Authorities Election Act applies to third party advertising in municipal elections

New rules are in effect and Candidates and Third Party Advertisers are responsible to ensure compliance with the legislation. Local Authorities Election Act - Part 5.1 (Section 147.1 to 147.96) and Part 8 (Section 162 to 188.1)

• Form 26 – Candidate Disclosure and Financial Statement
• Third party advertising guidelines for local elections in Alberta

Once a notice of intent form is accepted as complete by the local jurisdiction, an individual is allowed to be a candidate, accept contributions, or incur campaign expenses according to the rules set out in the Local Authorities Election Act and the Expense Limits regulation.

Campaign Expenses

Candidates are not required to open a dedicated campaign bank account unless their contributions (including self-funded) exceed $1,000. 

The Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) requires all candidates to open a bank account once they exceed $1,000 in total contributions. This includes monetary contributions made by the candidate for their own campaign.  Again, if a candidate’s contributions do not exceed $1,000, they are not required to open a campaign bank account.

For more information on election rules visit Municipal Affairs' Election web page which includes an updated Candidate's Guide for Running for Local Office in Alberta.  Contact Municipal Affairs by email if you have any questions.