Voter Eligibility: Who Can Vote in the Municipal Election?
An individual may vote in the City of Orillia municipal election if, on Voting Day, they are:
- A Canadian citizen;
- At least 18 years of age;
- An owner or tenant of land in the City of Orillia, or the spouse of an owner/tenant; and
- Not prohibited from voting under any law.
Note:
- An individual can only vote once in the City of Orillia municipal election, regardless of the number of properties owned or rented.
- Individuals must vote in the ward where they reside.
- Owners or tenants of non-residential property are eligible to vote for Council representation but not for school board elections.
Voter Eligibility: Who Can Vote in a School Board Election?
An Individual may vote in a school board election, if on Voting Day, they are:
- A Canadian Citizen;
- At least 18 years of age;
- An owner or tenant of residential property in the City of Orillia, or the spouse of a resident, owner or tenant of residential property in the City of Orillia; and
- Not prohibited from voting under any law.
Note: If you are eligible to vote in the City of Orillia municipal election as a result of ownership or tenancy of commercial property, you are not eligible to vote in a school board election.
Post-Secondary Students
Section 2(2.1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, permits post-secondary students to vote in both the City of Orillia municipal election and the municipal election in their "home" municipality, provided they:
- Reside in Orillia to attend a post-secondary institution; and
- Intend to return to their "home" municipality after completing their studies.
Voter Identification
When attending a voting location, each elector must provide identification verifying their identity and qualifying address. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Ontario driver’s licence
- Ontario Health Card (photo card)
- Utility bill (hydro, water, gas, etc.)
- Mortgage statement, lease, or rental agreement
- Bank statement or credit card statement
For a full list of acceptable identification, visit the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 2026 Voters' Guide.
Taking Time Off Work to Vote
As provided by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 2026 Voters' Guide:
- You are entitled to three hours to vote on Voting Day.
- This time is typically at the start or end of your working hours.
- Your employer may decide the most convenient time for you to be absent.
