City Council Elections
Elections for City Council positions are held in November of even numbered years. Council Members are elected at-large and serve staggering four-year terms. Every January, the City Council chooses a Mayor by majority vote to serve a one-year term.
Next City Council Election
- Election Date: November 3, 2026
- Three City Council seats are up for election (Councilmembers Ed Lauing, Julie Lythcott-Haims, and Vicki Veenker)
How Do I Run for City Council (2026)
Nomination and Qualification
The nomination period opens on July 13, 2026 and closes on August 7, 2026. This is the time period where interested individuals must qualify to become City Council candidates. If an incumbent, or the currently seated elected official, does not file for re-election then the nomination period is extended for 5 more days to August 12, 2026. The nomination petition is filed with the City Clerk by appointment only, please use our online portal to book an appointment.
During the nomination period you are required to:
- File a Declaration of Candidacy
- Obtain 25 signatures from Palo Alto registered voters nominating you for City Council
- File a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700)
- Acknowledge the City’s Political Sign regulations
There are three eligibility requirements to run for City Council.
- Be Registered To Vote in Palo Alto
Unless otherwise specifically provided, no person is eligible to be elected or appointed to an elective office unless that person is a registered voter and otherwise qualified to vote for that office at the time that nomination papers are issued to the person or at the time of the person’s appointment. (Elections Code Section 201)
- Have No Felony Convictions
A person is disqualified from holding an office upon conviction of designated crimes as specified in the Constitution and laws of the state. (Government Code Section 1021)
- If Elected, You Have to Serve
The Declaration of Candidacy, which each candidate must file, states that if elected the candidate will qualify for and accept the office. The affidavit also states that the candidate will not withdraw before the election. (Elections Code Section 10226.3)
View the 2026 City Council Candidate Guide