Ottawa Opens Special Advance Voting for Municipal Election

The City of Ottawa opened special advance voting on October 1 for its municipal election. This initial voting window runs through October 4, allowing residents to cast ballots for mayor, ward councillors, and school board trustees at any of 10 designated locations across the city.

Polls operate from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., although some reports indicate a 4 p.m. closing time. To participate, voters must present identification that verifies their name and Ottawa address, but photo identification is not required.

For residents who do not use the special advance period, the city has scheduled a general advance voting day on October 16 and the final general election day on October 26. Unlike the special advance period, voters on these dates must cast their ballots at their specifically assigned ward locations. Additionally, any approved mail-in ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on October 16 to be included in the count.