How to run for Office in San Jose

Infographic showing steps to run for City Council or Mayor in San José, from checking your district and filing forms to gathering signatures and getting on the ballot.

How to run for City Council or Mayor in the City of San José (and other cities, too!)

Check the Registrar of Voters site to confirm your Council District. https://vote.santaclaracounty.gov/look-your-district
Go to the City Clerk’s website to check the dates the nomination period opens.
Go to the California FPPC website to see what state forms you need to file before you run (Typically form 501 and 410). https://www.fppc.ca.gov/learn/campaign-rules.html
Meet with the City Clerk when the nomination period opens.
Gather Signatures, and fill out paperwork completely
File paperwork with the City Clerk prior to the end of the nomination period.
Signatures are verified. If minimum threshold is met then—
Get on the ballot!