There are two types of candidates in Nova Scotia: those who are affiliated with a registered political party, and independents. If you are planning to run for election as an MLA representing a party, the party must first register with Nova Scotia's Chief Electoral Officer.
Candidate Registration
Candidates must register with Elections Nova Scotia if they receive a contribution or transfer, or if they have incurred an expense. Form 1-1 must be completed and submitted for approval by the Chief Electoral Officer. The Application for registration must also provide a statement signed by the leader of the registered party that the registered candidate is an endorsed candidate of the registered party. Candidate may register at any time. Nominated candidates require an auditor who is registered with the Public Accountants Board of Nova Scotia: PABNS.com
Please refer to the handbook “Information for Prospective Candidates” for more details.
New - Guide for Candidates & Campaign Workers
Registering Electors - A Guide for Candidates, Campaign Workers & CROs Form 100B
Guides For Official Agent of Candidate
Fundraising
Loans
Monetary and Non-Monetary Contributions
Tax Receipts
Submitting Your Financial Election Return
Guide For Official Agent of Candidate
Candidate's Handbook (Non-Financial)
Once an election is called, to become a formally nominated candidate, you must:
file your completed nomination paper (Form 105, Candidate Nomination ) with the Returning Officer in the electoral district in which you plan to run not later than 2:00 pm on Nomination Day, which is the 20th day before election day
pay a deposit of $200
include a letter from the Party Leader endorsing your candidacy if you are running for a registered political party
have your Nomination Paper signed by at least five electors who would be qualified to vote for you. However, it is a good idea to have a few more signatures just in case there is a problem with someone's qualifications
appoint an Official Agent and an Auditor. Candidates must not handle their own finances.
A Guide to the Nomination Process
Once you've done all that and the Returning Officer signs the receipt for your deposit on your Nomination Paper, you are considered "officially nominated."
What else does it take to become a candidate? You must
be an eligible elector, i.e., be at least 18 years of age on election day, be a Canadian citizen, and a resident of Nova Scotia for six months preceeding the issuance of the writ, and
not be disqualified to be a candidate or MLA under the Elections Act, House of Assembly Act, or any other Provincial Act
Guide for a Scrutineers
The Role of a Scrutineer
Appointment of Scrutineers
A prospective candidate and want to find out more? We've prepared information just for you. Download here:
Information for Prospective Candidates
Notice to Landlords re Access for Registered Candidates Campaigning
Advertising Circular Political Advertising During a Nova Scotia Election
Candidates Handbook(non financial)
Official Agent Information for Completing the Financial Package of a Candidate - June 2017
Guide for Fundraising for the Candidate's Campaign
Guide for Issuing Tax Receipts
Guide for Contributions to the Candidate's Campaign
Guide for the Nomination Process
Guide for the Candidate's Campaign for Election Expenses