Local Assent Voting

Assent voting is voting on a bylaw or another matter for which a local government is required to obtain voters’ permission to spend money on a project. Assent voting is sometimes referred to as a “referendum” and can be held with a local election or on its own. Non-election assent voting is when the assent voting is held on its own.

Elections BC oversees election advertising rules for local elections and assent voting in B.C., including registering advertising sponsors. Local governments administer all other aspects of the vote.

For more information about the rules, read the Guide for Local Non-election Assent Voting Advertising Sponsors in B.C. (PDF) or visit our Local Elections FAQs.

Current non-election assent voting dates and information


2023 Summerland Recreation Centre Non-election Assent Voting – November 4, 2023

For information not related to campaign financing or advertising, such as how to vote or how to file nomination papers, please contact the District of Summerland.

Key Dates Deadlines
October 7, 2023 – November 4, 2023 Assent Voting Proceedings Period
Saturday, November 4, 2023 General Voting Day
Friday, February 2, 2024
Financing disclosure statement filing deadline
Monday, March 4, 2024 Financing disclosure statement late filing deadline with $500 late filing fee

2023 Columbia Shuswap Regional District Watershed Council Service Bylaw Non-election Assent Voting – August 26, 2023 – POSTPONED

For information not related to campaign financing or advertising, such as how to vote or how to file nomination papers, please contact the Columbia Shuswap Regional District.

Key Dates Deadlines
TBD To be determined

2023 qathet Regional District Lund Community Centre Loan Non-election Assent Voting – May 6, 2023

For information not related to campaign financing or advertising, such as how to vote or how to file nomination papers, please contact qathet Regional District.

Key Dates Deadlines
April 8, 2023 – May 6, 2023 Assent Voting Proceedings Period
Saturday, May 6, 2023 General Voting Day
Friday, August 4, 2023
Financing disclosure statement filing deadline
Tuesday, September 5, 2023 Financing disclosure statement late filing deadline with $500 late filing fee