Candidate Guide

Lynda Roberts, Registrar of Voters, Elections

Candidate Guide

General Election November 3, 2020

This guide gives you information about candidate forms, fees, requirements, and deadlines for the November 3, 2020 Presidential General Election. You can also find more information under the election schedule section on our website.

The nomination process can be complicated, and the filing deadlines are rigid. It is a good idea to file your candidate paperwork early. Otherwise, you may not have enough time to correct any mistakes before the deadline.

If you have questions about your candidacy or any information presented in this guide, please call Dan Miller at (415) 473-6437 or send him an email.

Important! The Candidate Guide provides general information about the nomination and election of candidates. It does not have the force and effect of law, regulation, or rule.

The Registrar of Voters does not provide legal advice and this guide is not intended to provide legal advice. Any person, organization or candidate using this guide may not rely on it as a substitute to seeking legal counsel. Statutes and regulations change and are updated on a frequent basis; therefore, the guidelines provided in this booklet may not reflect the most current state of the law.

Download a PDF version of the November 3, 2020 General Election Candidate's Guide

Index

Common Questions

Important Dates

November 3, 2020 General Election
Date # of days before
election ↓
Process
July 13 thru
August 7, 2020

Nomination period for all candidates
113 - 88 Period for all candidates and incumbents to file with the Elections Department all required and optional documents, or withdraw as a candidate.
Candidates for municipal offices must pick up and file nomination documents at their City/Town Clerk’s office. (Some cities charge a filing fee.)
July 28, 2020
Run-off candidates
98 Deadline for run-off candidates from the Primary election to request a different ballot designation for the upcoming November election.
August 8 thru
August 17, 2020

Public review of candidate statements and ballot designations
87-78 During this period a candidate or voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, may file legal action to challenge a candidate’s statement or ballot designation filed for offices closed for nomination. Elections Code 13313 & 13314
August 8 thru
August 12, 2018

Extended nomination period begins
87-83 The nomination period will remain open if an incumbent does not file by the August 7th deadline. Incumbents may not file during this period.
August 13 thru
August 22, 2020

Public review of candidate statements and ballot designations
82-73 During this period a candidate or voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, may file legal action to challenge a candidate’s statement or ballot designation filed for offices closed for nomination. Elections Code 13313 & 13314
August 13, 2020
Random alphabet drawing
82 The Secretary of State conducts a random drawing to decide the order of candidate names on the ballot. The Registrar of Voters draws the random alphabet for State Assembly and State Senate candidates for the Marin County ballot. Elections Code 13113
September 4, 2020
Overseas & Military Ballots
60 Marin County Elections Department starts mailing ballots to overseas and military voters.
September 7 thru
October 20, 2020

Write-in candidates
57-14 Write-In Candidates must pick up and file papers at the Marin County Elections Department.
Write-in candidates for municipal offices must pick up and file papers with their respective City/Town Clerk’s office. Elections Code 8601
September 24, 2020
Voter Information Guide mailing
40 Marin County Elections Department will begin mailing Voter Information Guides to all registered voters in the county.
September 24, 2020
Campaign finance
40 Candidates must file at least 1 campaign finance statement by this date regardless of their level of activity.
October 5, 2020
Vote-by-Mail ballots
29 Marin County Elections Department begins mailing vote-by-mail ballots to all registered voters in the county. Marin County voters may pick-up a vote-by-mail ballot at the Elections Department starting this date.
October 19, 2020
Voter Registration deadline
Exception as noted
15 This is the last day to register to vote for this election. If voters miss the registration deadline for this election, they must come to the Elections Department to register and vote on the same day beginning October 20, 2020.
November 3, 2020
Election Day
0 The polls and the Marin County Elections Department are open 7 am – 8 pm.
December 3, 2020
Election certification
+30 The deadline for the Marin County Elections Department to certify the county’s election results. Elections Code 15372

2020 General Election At-A-Glance

The offices open for nomination are non-partisan. Party affiliation is not a consideration.
Non-partisan offices: Special Districts • School Districts • Municipal Offices

The following contests from the March 2020 Primary Election will also be on the November ballot:
Party-nominated and Voter-nominated offices: President of the United States • U.S. Representative in Congress • California State Assembly Member

  • How are November candidates elected?

    Except for the office of President, candidates need only receive more votes than the other candidates to win outright. An absolute majority (more than 50%) of all votes cast is not necessary to win in the General election.

  • When will elected candidates take office?

    Whether elected in March or November, the ‘swearing in’ dates are as follows:

    •   Federal Office: President & Representative in Congress will take office on January 3, 2021.
      US Constitution, Article I, § 2; 20th Amend., §1
    •   State Assembly Member will take office on December 7, 2020.
      CA Constitution, Article IV, § 2(a)(1) & (3)
    •   Superior Court Judges & County Supervisors will take office on Jan. 4, 2021.
      CA Constitution, Article VI, §16(c); Gov’t Code §24200
    •   Special District elected officials will take office on December 4, 2020.
      Election Code §10554
    •   School District elected officials will take office on December 11, 2020.
      Education Code §5017
    •   Municipal nominees must contact the city/town clerk for information.
  • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic some of our procedures may have changed.

    Concerning the health and safety of candidates, voters, the public, and election staff, our office will implement changes to our procedures for the November Presidential General election.

    Please note that at the time of this printing the changing pandemic situation may force further process modifications to everything from candidate filing to polling sites and vote-by-mail. Our goal is to minimize as many inconveniences as possible.

Offices Open

Offices Scheduled for Nomination

  • Offices Scheduled

    Seats listed below are either full-term (4-years) or short-term.
    A short-term seat, due to the vacancy of a previously seated officeholder, shall last no longer than 2-years.

    • School Districts - Governing Board Members/Trustees
      • School District Qualifications:
        • Candidates must be a registered voter in the district who is not disqualified by the Constitution or laws of the state from holding a public office. Education Code §35107.
        • A Board of Education candidate must be an elector of the trustee area which he or she represents and shall be elected by the electors of the trustee area. Education Code §1000.
        • Any registered voter is eligible to be a member of the county board of education except the county superintendent of schools or any member of his or her staff, or any employee of a school district that is within the jurisdiction of the county board of education. Education Code 1006.
      • Marin County Board of Education

        Trustee Area No. 1 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 2 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 4 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 7 - One (1) full term seat

      • Shoreline Unified School District

        Trustee Area No. 1 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 2 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 3 - Two (2) full term seats

      • Bolinas Stinson Union School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Kentfield School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Laguna Joint School District

        One (1) full-term seat

      • Lagunitas School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Larkspur-Corte Madera School District

        Two (2) full-term seats; One (1) short-term seat

      • Lincoln Union School District

        One (1) full-term seat

      • Marin Community College District

        Four (4) full-term seats

      • Mill Valley School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Miller Creek Elementary School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Nicasio School District

        One (1) full-term seat

      • Novato Unified School District

        Trustee Area No. 1 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 2 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 3 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 7 - One (1) full term seat

      • Petaluma Joint Union High School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Reed Union School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Ross School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Ross Valley School District

        Three (3) full-term seats

      • San Rafael School District

        Trustee Area No. 1 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 3 - One (1) full term seat
        Trustee Area No. 5 - One (1) full term seat
        (Candidate documents issued by San Rafael City Clerk)

      • Sausalito-Marin City School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

      • Tamalpais Union High School District

        Two (2) full-term seats

    • Special Districts - Directors/Board Members

      Special District Qualifications:
      • Candidates must be a registered voter in the district and qualified to vote for that office at the time nomination documents are issued to the candidate. Reference Election Code 201, Water Code 71501, Public Resource Code 5784(c).

      • Community Services Districts
        • Bel Marin Keys Community Services District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Marin City Community Services District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Marinwood Community Services District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Muir Beach Community Services District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Tamalpais Community Services District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Tomales Village Community Services District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
      • Fire Protection Districts
        • Bolinas Fire Protection District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Kentfield Fire Protection District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Novato Fire Protection District
          • Voting District 1 - One (1) full term seat
            Voting District 2 - One (1) full term seat
            Voting District 3 - One (1) full term seat
        • Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Southern Marin Fire Protection District
          • Three (3) full-term seats; One (1) short-term seat
        • Stinson Beach Fire Protection District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Tiburon Fire Protection District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
      • Sanitary Districts
        • Alto Sanitary District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
        • Homestead Valley Sanitary District
          • Three (3) full-term seats; One (1) short term seat
        • Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Novato Sanitary District
          • Division 1 - One (1) full term seat
            Division 4 - One (1) full term seat
            At-Large - One (1) short term seat
        • Richardson Bay Sanitary District
          • Two (2) full term seats; One (1) short term seat
        • Sausalito-Marin City Sanitary District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Sanitary District No. 5 - Tiburon
          • Three (3) full-term seats
      • Public Utility Districts
        • Bolinas Community Public Utility District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Inverness Public Utility District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
      • Water Districts
        • Marin Municipal Water District
          • Division 2 - One (1) full term seat
            Division 5 - One (1) full term seat
            Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter in the division of the district at the time that nomination papers are issued. Water Code §71501.
        • North Marin Water District
          • Division 2 - One (1) full term seat
            Division 3 - One (1) full term seat
            Division 4 - One (1) full term seat
        • Stinson Beach County Water District
          • Three (3) full-term seats
      • Recreation Districts
        • Mesa Park Recreation District
          • Two (2) full-term seats
        • Strawberry Recreation District
          • Two (2) full-term seats; One (1) short term seat
      • Marin Healthcare District

        Two (2) full-term seats
        Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter in the district. Health & Safety Code §32100 No person who is a director, employee, or medical staff of a hospital owned or operated by a district shall do either of the following: (1) Possess any ownership interest in any other hospital serving the same area as that served by the district hospital of which the person is a director; (2) Be a director, employee, or medical staff of any hospital serving the same area as the area served by the district hospital unless the boards of directors of the district and the hospital have determined that the situation will further efficient delivery of health care services of the areas served by their respective hospitals, or unless the district and the hospital are affiliated under ownership, lease, or any combination thereof. Health & Safety Code §32100.

      • Marin Resource Conservation District

        Three (3) full-term seats
        Qualifications: Candidate shall reside within the district and either own real property in the district or alternatively have served, pursuant to the district’s rules, for two years or more as an associate director providing advisory or other assistance to the board of directors; or be a designated agent of a resident landowner within the district. Public Resources Code §9352.
        Requires signatures of five (5) landowners within the district. Public Resources Code §9358.

    • Municipal Offices - Nomination papers issued by and filed with the City/Town Clerk
      • Qualifications: A person is not eligible to hold office as a member of a municipal legislative body unless he or she is otherwise qualified, resides in the district and resided in the district from which he or she is elected and a registered voter of the city at the time nomination papers are issued to the candidate as provided for in Section 10227 of the Elections Code. Gov. Code §34882.
        A minimum of 20 sponsor signatures are required for towns/cities. EC §10220.
      • City of Belvedere
        • Three (3) Council member seats
      • City of San Rafael
        • District 1 - One (1) Council member seat
          District 4 - One (1) Council member seat
          Mayor - One (1) seat
          City Clerk - One (1) seat
          City Attorney - One (1) seat
      • City of Sausalito
        • Three (3) Council member seats
      • Town of Fairfax
        • Three (3) Council member seats
      • Town of San Anselmo
        • Three (3) Council member seats
      • Town of Tiburon
        • Two (2) Council member seats
  • Insufficient Nominees

    If the number of candidates filing papers for a specific contest does not exceed the number of seats to be filled, those candidates will be appointed in lieu of an election.

    If the number of candidates are less than the number of seats to be filled:

    • Special Districts

      The Board of Supervisors will appoint any qualified person(s) who will then serve exactly as if elected. Elections Code §10515.

    • School Districts

      The governing board of the district will appoint any qualified person(s) who will then serve exactly as if elected. (Education Code §§ 5328 & 5328.5).

    • Municipal

      The city’s governing body may adopt one of the following courses of action:

      • Appoint those persons having filed nomination papers before the deadline,
      • Appoint an eligible person who had not filed before the deadline,
      • Hold the election (Elections Code § 10229).
  • Placement of names on the ballot / Randomized Alphabet Drawing

    The order in which candidates’ names shall be placed on the ballot is specified in Elections Code §13111 and §13112, and Elections Code §13109 specifies the order of offices on the ballot.

    At 11:00 a.m. on the 82nd day before the election, the Secretary of State’s Office and the Marin County Registrar of Voters separately pick each letter of the alphabet at random according to the procedure specified in Elections Code §13112 compiling their own randomized alphabet list.

    Each candidate will be placed on the ballot in the order that each of the letters of his/her surname was drawn. For example, the placement of candidates with the surnames of Campbell and Carlson will depend on the order in which the letters M and R were drawn.

    The Secretary of State’s Office will determine name placement for all contests except that the Marin County Registrar of Voters draws for State Senator and State Assembly.

  • Applying to be a Candidate

    Due to the COVID-19 pandemic our office has implemented measures and procedures to protect the health and safety of candidates and office staff.

    • Appointments are required – If you do not have an appointment when visiting our office you must wait until all other appointments are completed.
    • Face masks are required – Anyone visiting our office without a face mask will not be allowed to enter. Masks must be worn at all times while in our office.
    • If you are feeling ill please do not come to our office.
    • Certain documents must be either notarized or witnessed in person by election staff. If neither is feasible due to illness or shelter-in-place, we will arrange a virtual witnessing of your signature.
    • In order to accommodate virtual filing you must first inform our office of your intentions. Afterwards specific original documents must be received in our office by the applicable deadline. Otherwise your candidacy will not be qualified.

    Before receiving nomination documents from the Elections Department you must complete and file a Candidate Application Form. This is located on our website at www.marinvotes.org and will be accessible July 1st. If you cannot access or e-file the application please call (415) 473-6437 for assistance.

    The application form is used by our office to verify your voter registration status and residence address. The information you provide on the application, including your name, must match our records.

    Please designate the office and term of office for which you’re applying to. It’s required that you provide a contact email address and phone number on the application. We ask that you choose either or both of your contact preferences so the media and public may contact you.

    Your candidate documents will be emailed to you on or shortly after July 13th. If necessary we can send your documents by regular mail, or you may have a person with signed authorization pickup your candidate papers.

Candidate Nomination Papers

The following documents are available starting July 13, 2020 and are required to be filed with the Elections official.

  • Declaration of Candidacy

    The Declaration of Candidacy must be completed/signed and witnessed by an authorized official, or a registered Notary Public. The DOC must be filed with the designated office with all other required documents by the applicable deadline.

    Candidates may not file a Declaration of Candidacy form for more than one term of office for the same district, or for more than one district or municipal office at a time. E.C. §8003(b), §10510(b), §10220.5.

    • How do you want your name to appear on the ballot?

      Indicate your name preference on the Declaration of Candidacy form. You can keep your voter registration name, or you may designate your name as follows:

      • You can use your nickname in quotation marks, along with your legal name on your form. You may also use a first name that you’re known by in your community. Either choice must include your registered last name.
      • First, middle, and last name
      • Initials only and last name
      • A familiar or common short version of the first name such as Bill for William or Becky for Rebecca, etc.

      The name you choose to write on the Declaration of Candidacy form is the only name that shall be on the ballot and written on other candidate papers. A.G. Ops 50-87, 5/27/80.

      Please note: you cannot have titles or degrees with your name on the ballot. EC §13106.

    • Ballot Designation

      On the ballot under your name is the Ballot Designation. It is optional, but if you choose a designation then you must indicate this on the Declaration of Candidacy form.

      If you choose not to have a designation, write “NONE” on your Declaration of Candidacy form where it asks for your designation. Also put your initials after the word “NONE.”

      If you choose to have a designation you must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet, but if you do not choose a designation then the worksheet is not required.

      The Ballot Designation Worksheet section provides detailed information about the worksheet.

  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (if requesting a designation)
    • General Rules

      The Ballot Designation refers to your current occupation, vocation, profession, or incumbency status. You may list more than one profession, occupation, or vocation, but you are limited to 3 words and you must separate them with a slash: Professor/Mother/Doctor. The exception is that an elected official can use the exact title of the office currently held: Director, ABC Fire Protection District. Note: If you choose words that are very long they may be printed in a smaller font size.

      If you decide to use a ballot designation you must fill out a Ballot Designation Worksheet E.C. §13107.3; Admin. Code §20710 thru §20719 and file it with your candidate papers by the deadline.

      California state law requires that your designation describes your current occupation, profession, vocation, or what you did for a living during the 12 months before the filing deadline. The words you choose must be generic and neutral, but accurate and not misleading E.C. § 13107. The Some words are not allowed section below lists designations that are generally not acceptable.

    • Some words are not allowed
      • Do not use words that
        • Evaluate:
          • Examples: Outstanding, leading, expert, virtuous, eminent, best, exalted, prominent, advocate, activist, reformer, pro, antii.
        • Suggest status and not your occupation:
          • Examples: Taxpayer, patriot, citizen, renter, presidential appointee, husband, wife, scholar, veteran, concerned citizen, activist
        • Suggest a religious or ethnic group:
          • Examples: Asian, Christian, Irish
        • Suggest a political party or ideology:
          • Examples: Conservative, Democrat, Republican, Socialism, Absolutist, Anarchist
        • Pro Forma positions or vocations:
          • Examples: honorary, hostess, goodwill ambassador (see CA Admin. Code 20716)
        • Suggest previous occupations:
          • Examples: Former, ex (You may use retired. See Rules for specific types of ballot designations and candidates below.)
        • Name a company, agency or person:
          • Examples: Instead of: IBM President, use: Computer Corporation President
            Instead of: Director, DMV, use: State Agency Director
        • Mislead:
          • Examples: An occasional activity, hobby, or position that takes up little of your time. You may have to give proof to support the accuracy of your designation.
    • Request for supporting documents

      Candidates are responsible for providing thorough and accurate information. The Elections Department or Secretary of State may request supporting documentation or evidence supporting a candidate’s proposed ballot designation. It is important to accurately complete the worksheet with as much information as you can provide. Admin. Code § 20717.

    • Rejection of ballot designations

      Each designation is evaluated based on guidelines and restrictions stated in the Elections Code. Designations will be determined given a candidate’s individual circumstance.

      The Secretary of State’s office administers rules and procedures for State and Federal candidates. The worksheet must be fully completed, otherwise it will be rejected and returned by the State.

      Candidates are given an opportunity to make a correction. If you do not provide an acceptable alternative designation by the deadline, no ballot designation will be listed after your name. E.C. § 13107.5.

    • Rules for specific types of ballot designations and candidates

      You may use the words community volunteer if Admin. Code § 20714.5:

      • You’re substantially involved as a community volunteer with bona fide organizations,
      • You do not have another principal occupation or vocation, and
      • You do not add any other words to describe another occupation or vocation.

      You may use the word retired if (Admin. Code § 20716(h)(1)):

      • You are 55 or older, and worked at your last job or vocation for more than 5 years and left voluntarily;
      • A principal source of your income is from a retirement plan or retirement benefits (or you are eligible to receive retirement benefits).
      • You cannot use retired if you’ve had more recent professions, occupations, or vocations.
      • Note: You must not abbreviate retired or place it after the word(s) it modifies.

      If you are an incumbent, you may use:

      • Your elected title, even if the title has more than 3 words
        Example: Board Member, ABC School District
      • Your elected position and your other occupation or vocation, if you use 3 words or less
        Example: Board Member/Teacher
      • The word Incumbent (no other words allowed) if you’re filing for the same office you hold now.
      • Only local candidates do not have to justify the use of the word incumbent or appointed incumbent. You may simply write “current officeholder” in the justification sections or leave it blank. The election staff will stamp as confirmed. 

      If you are an appointed incumbent you may use:

      • The words Appointed Incumbent (no other words allowed) if you are running for the same office you hold now. Judicial candidates having been appointed to a judicial seat are not required to use this designation and can use Incumbent instead.
      • The word Appointed along with your current elected position and the jurisdiction (Appointed Board Member, ABC School District), or the word Appointed along with your current elected position and another designation (Appointed Trustee/Mother).

      If you are a non-incumbent judicial candidate and an active member of the State Bar, you must use either:

      • “Attorney,” “Attorney at Law,” “Lawyer,” or “Counselor at Law”.
      • Words designating the actual job title if employed by the city, county, district, state, or federal office held by the candidate at the time of filing and must contain relevant qualifiers such as “City of...”, “County of...”, or the full name of the governmental agency.
      • If your designation describes your position in performing quasi-judicial functions for a governmental agency, the full name of that agency must be included.
      • Designations “Attorney” and “Lawyer” may be used in combination with one other designation held currently or within the previous calendar year (Attorney/Website Developer).

      California Administrative Code exceptions:

      • There may be exceptions to the rules regarding a designation. A specific occupation, vocation, or profession typically not allowed may be considered if certain conditions apply.
      • A designation which does not describe a significant involvement on the part of the candidate, and which is only nominal, pro forma, or titular is generally not accepted. Exceptions can be those which are proven to have certain decision-making abilities such as government planning, or an agency’s financial responsibilities.
      • All designations are decided individually and may not be applicable from one candidate to another, depending on each evaluation.

      Please note: your candidate designation will be the same for both primary and general elections (if applicable), unless at least 98 days before the general election, you request in writing a different designation which you’re entitled to use at the time of the request.

  • Candidate’s Statement (optional)
    • General Information

      You have the option to file a 200-word candidate statement to be printed in the Marin County Voter Information Guide. Congressional, State Senate & Assembly candidates are allowed 250 words.

      • File your statement no later than 5 p.m., August 7th. If you’re filing for office during an extended nomination period, the deadline is 5 p.m., August 12th.
      • Payment for your statement is required when filing your nomination documents.
      • If applicable to your candidacy you have the option to print your statement in multiple counties. Each county must receive payment directly from you.
      • Review your statement carefully and/or proofread with another person because you’re not allowed to correct typos or mistakes after filing.
      • If you want to change your statement after you file, your only option is to withdraw as a candidate, and completely re-file as a candidate.
      • If you choose to withdraw your statement you must do so by the close of business of the next working day after the close of the nomination period. You’ll be refunded the cost of the statement.
      • Candidate statements should be submitted in electronic version, preferably using the provided PDF template, or a Word doc is acceptable. Candidates filing a handwritten statement will be charged an additional $100 typesetting fee.
    • Content requirements

      Your candidate statement can include information about your education, experience and other qualifications, and shall not include information about your party affiliations, memberships or activities in any political party organizations. EC §13307(a); §13308. Listing memberships or affiliations with organizations that are found to have distinct political inclinations may not be accepted.

      You shall not directly or indirectly reference any other candidate, nor suggest or imply the qualification of other candidates by stating “I’m the only candidate…”, or any other similar wording.

      If your statement does not comply, the elections official will require changes.

      Endorsements by individuals and organizations are allowed but must be verified by written authorization (email is acceptable) directly from the endorsers. The endorsement letter must include the candidate’s name, the elective office, the date of the election, and the name of the endorser.

      The use of non-endorsing individual or organization’s name in a statement is only allowed if being used exclusively as biographical information.

    • Formatting requirements

      All candidate statements must be uniform in type and size, and single-spaced lines.

      • No ALL CAPS (use upper and lower case)
      • No italics, no bold, no underlining, no highlighting
      • No clusters of exclamation points!!!!
      • No bullets or numbered lists (we will replace with semicolons and wrap text)
      • Indents are not allowed
      • 200 words maximum based on rules specified in Elections Code §9.
      • Word count begins after “Education and Qualifications” on a Candidate Statement
        • Your statement must fit in a quarter page area, and we may need to adjust the format and spacing of your statement. We suggest using the provided PDF template to create your statement for the desired look.
        • Your name must match your name on the ballot. Variations are not allowed.
        • Age and occupation are optional.
        • Occupation must refer to your current employment or vocation, or status as an active licensed professional even if not currently employed as such, for example, physician or attorney.

      SAMPLE FORMAT
      STATEMENT OF CANDIDATE FOR
      MEMBER, CITY COUNCIL
      Greatest City

      JANE CITIZEN                                                                    AGE: 35
      Occupation: Manager
      Education and Qualifications: I can bring to the office a diversity of viewpoints and experience. Born and raised in the San Francisco area, with my family still farming, I can appreciate the concerns of the environmentalists.
      On the other hand, having been in business since my undergraduate days at college, and with my experience in the rental and real estate field, I appreciate the practical housing choices and frustrations with high rental cost.
      I advocate a program to protect our neighborhoods from increasing overcrowding and visual blight. As a Member of the City Council, I would bring balanced points of view.

    • How to Count Words

      Candidate statements are limited to a certain number of words. The rules below explain how we count words. These rules are based on California law. Before you file your statement count the words carefully. If you have too many words we will ask you to revise your text.

      • Items counted as 1 word:

        Symbols and numerals with symbols that form a single word:

        • Examples: &, #, %, 100s, $1000, 10¢, 12th

        Abbreviations & acronyms:

        • Examples: Dist., UCLA, U.S.M.C., FYI

        All dates in any form

        • Examples: 7/21/89, or July 4, 1776

        Numbers and phone numbers:

        • Examples: 12, 1,000,000, 415-473-6456

        Website & e-mail addresses:

        • Examples: www.marinvotes.org; elections@marincounty.org

        Proper nouns beginning with capital letters including the names of people, places, and certain things; and official names of jurisdictions and districts:

        • Examples: New Jersey, County of Marin, Tamalpais Union High School District, Marin General Hospital, Bob Hope, Internal Revenue Service, Ford F150

        Hyphenated words listed in a standard U.S. dictionary published within 10 years before the date of the election:

        • Examples: Attorney-at-law, ex-president, merry-go-round, seventy-two
      • Items not counted as 1 word:

        Numbers written as words:

        • Examples: one hundred

        Groups of common nouns not definable as proper nouns:

        • Examples: peck of pickled peppers, political veteran, presiding judge
      • Items NOT counted:

        Punctuation marks:

        • Examples: ? “ ” !

        We do not count any part of the “Occupation” section, or the words “Education and Qualifications” on a Candidate Statement.

    • Candidate Statement Fees

      All candidates must pay a fee to have their statement printed in the Marin County Voter Information Guide. If you want your statement translated into Spanish, the cost is doubled plus a translation fee. The fees are based on typesetting, printing, mailing expenses, and the number of registered voters in specified areas based on the July 2, 2020 report to the Secretary of State.

      • School Districts
        • Marin County Board of Education
          • Trustee Area 1
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 22,763
            • Statement printed in English only, $320
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $740
          • Trustee Area 2
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 15,462
            • Statement printed in English only, $265
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $630
          • Trustee Area 4
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 27,653
            • Statement printed in English only, $355
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $810
          • Trustee Area 7
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 21,748
            • Statement printed in English only, $310
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $720
        • Shoreline Unified School District
          • Trustee Area 1
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,814
            • Statement printed in English only, $165
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $430
          • Trustee Area 2
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 369
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
          • Trustee Area 3
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 297
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Bolinas-Stinson Union School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,476
          • Statement printed in English only, $160
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $420
        • Kentfield School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 8,870
          • Statement printed in English only, $215
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $530
        • Laguna Joint School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 130
          • Statement printed in English only, $150
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Lagunitas School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 2,888
          • Statement printed in English only, $170
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $440
        • Larkspur-Corte Madera School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 10,426
          • Statement printed in English only, $225
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $550
        • Lincoln Union School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 142
          • Statement printed in English only, $150
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Marin Community College District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 167,199
          • Statement printed in English only, $1,405
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $2,910
        • Mill Valley School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 22,772
          • Statement printed in English only, $320
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $740
        • Miller Creek School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 14,696
          • Statement printed in English only, $260
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $620
        • Nicasio School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 432
          • Statement printed in English only, $150
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Novato Unified School District
          • Trustee Area 1
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,968
            • Statement printed in English only, $185
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $470
          • Trustee Area 2
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,154
            • Statement printed in English only, $195
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $490
          • Trustee Area 3
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 3,965
            • Statement printed in English only, $180
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $460
          • Trustee Area 7
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,217
            • Statement printed in English only, $180
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $460
        • Petaluma Joint Union High School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 272
          • Statement printed in English only, $150
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Reed Union School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 9,983
          • Statement printed in English only, $225
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $550
        • Ross School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,919
          • Statement printed in English only, $165
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $430
        • Ross Valley School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 17,893
          • Statement printed in English only, $285
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $670
        • San Rafael School District
          • Trustee Area 1
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 9,216
            • Statement printed in English only, $220
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $540
          • Trustee Area 3
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 9,403
            • Statement printed in English only, $220
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $540
          • Trustee Area 5
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 2,374
            • Statement printed in English only, $165
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $430
        • Sausalito-Marin City School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 8,213
          • Statement printed in English only, $210
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $520
        • Tamalpais Union High School District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 84,879
          • Statement printed in English only, $785
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $1,670
      • Special Districts
        • Community Services Districts
          • Bel Marin Keys Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,240
            • Statement printed in English only, $160
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $420
          • Marin City Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,693
            • Statement printed in English only, $160
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $420
          • Marinwood Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 3,384
            • Statement printed in English only, $175
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $450
          • Muir Beach Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 301
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
          • Tamalpais Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,581
            • Statement printed in English only, $185
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $470
          • Tomales Village Community Services District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 124
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Fire Protection Districts
          • Bolinas Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,007
            • Statement printed in English only, $155
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $410
          • Kentfield Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,914
            • Statement printed in English only, $185
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $470
          • Novato Fire Protection District
            • Voting District 1
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 8,601
              • Statement printed in English only, $215
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $530
            • Voting District 2
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 7,740
              • Statement printed in English only, $205
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $510
            • Voting District 3
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,982
              • Statement printed in English only, $185
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $470
          • Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,767
            • Statement printed in English only, $160
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $420
          • Southern Marin Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 19,176
            • Statement printed in English only, $295
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $690
          • Stinson Beach Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 454
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
          • Tiburon Fire Protection District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 5,463
            • Statement printed in English only, $190
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $480
        • Sanitary Districts
          • Alto Sanitary District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 791
            • Statement printed in English only, $155
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $410
          • Homestead Valley Sanitary District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,925
            • Statement printed in English only, $165
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $430
          • Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 19,785
            • Statement printed in English only, $295
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $690
          • Novato Sanitary District
            • Division 1
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 3,571
              • Statement printed in English only, $175
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $450
            • Division 4
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 7,760
              • Statement printed in English only, $205
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $510
            • At-Large
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 35,137
              • Statement printed in English only, $410
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $920
          • Richardson Bay Sanitary District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,583
            • Statement printed in English only, $200
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $500
          • Sausalito-Marin City Sanitary District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 7,988
            • Statement printed in English only, $210
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $520
          • Sanitary District No. 5
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 4,415
            • Statement printed in English only, $180
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $460
        • Public Utility Districts
          • Bolinas Community Public Utility District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 495
            • Statement printed in English only, $155
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $410
          • Inverness Public Utility District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 873
            • Statement printed in English only, $155
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $410
        • Water Districts
          • Marin Municipal Water District
            • Division 2
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 19,361
              • Statement printed in English only, $295
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $690
            • Division 5
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 23,551
              • Statement printed in English only, $325
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $750
          • North Marin Water District
            • Division 2
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,676
              • Statement printed in English only, $200
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $500
            • Division 3
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,034
              • Statement printed in English only, $195
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $490
            • Division 4
              • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,389
              • Statement printed in English only, $195
              • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $490
          • Stinson Beach County Water District
            • Number of Jurisdiction, 455
            • Statement printed in English only, $150
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $400
        • Recreation Districts
          • Mesa Park Recreation District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,007
            • Statement printed in English only, $155
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $410
          • Strawberry Recreation District
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 2,936
            • Statement printed in English only, $170
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $440
        • Marin Healthcare District
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 129,553
          • Statement printed in English only, $1,120
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $2,340
        • Marin Resource Conservation District
          • Number of Jurisdiction, 3,476
          • Statement printed in English only, $175
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $450
      • City/Town Councils
        • City of Belvedere
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 1,509
          • Statement printed in English only, $160
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $420
        • City of San Rafael
          • Mayor • City Clerk • City Attorney
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 32,360
            • Statement printed in English only, $390
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $880
          • District 1
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 3,412
            • Statement printed in English only, $175
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $450
          • District 4
            • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 10,024
            • Statement printed in English only, $225
            • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $550
        • City of Sausalito
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 5,642
          • Statement printed in English only, $190
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $480
        • Town of Fairfax
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 5,784
          • Statement printed in English only, $190
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $480
        • Town of San Anselmo
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 9,291
          • Statement printed in English only, $220
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $540
        • Town of Tiburon
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 6,525
          • Statement printed in English only, $200
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $500
      • County-wide Contests
        • State Assembly and Congressional
          • Number of Jurisdiction Voters, 167,471
          • Statement printed in English only, $1,410
          • Statement printed in English and Spanish, $2,920
      • State Offices and Voluntary Expenditure Ceilings

        State Assembly candidates who want to purchase space for a 250-word statement in the Marin County Voter Information Guide must accept the State’s voluntary expenditure limits by filing the Form 501 (Candidate Statement of Intention) with the office of the Secretary of State. Government Code § 85601

  • Statement of Economic Interests Form 700

    The Political Reform Act requires candidates and most government officials to publicly disclose their personal assets and income, and also disqualify themselves from participating in decisions that may affect their personal economic interests.

    When filing your candidate papers you must also file the Form 700, disclosing your personal assets and income for the previous calendar year.

    While sometimes popularly called “conflict-of-interest statements,” any conflict of interests under the Political Reform Act can only come about if a public official makes or participates in making a government decision that has a reasonably foreseeable material financial effect on the official’s personal financial interests. Also, the law does not require all relevant personal financial interests (such as ownership of a personal residence in most cases) to be disclosed on the statement of economic interests.

    The Form 700 is a public document and is required to be made available by request and/or posted online.

    If you are elected or appointed to office, you must file this form with the appropriate filing officer for your jurisdiction within 30 days of taking office, and then annually until you leave office.

    The Form 700 and instructions will be included with your candidate packet

    For more information go to the Fair Political Practices Commission website.

  • Campaign Finance Statements (minimum required)
    • Basic Rules for All Candidate Committees
      • All campaign finance reports are considered public and may be posted online.
      • Deposit all campaign funds in a separate bank account that is only for the campaign. You cannot add contributed funds to personal accounts.
      • Do not use the same bank account, committee, or committee name that you used in a previous election if you are running for a different office.
      • Open a campaign finance committee at any time using a Form 410. You must open a committee once you raise or spend $2000 for your campaign.
      • Record all contributions and expenses of $25 or more. (Your FPPC manual offers guidelines for recordkeeping.)
      • Document any donation worth $100 or more, including cash, loans, and in-kind contributions, including the contributor’s name, address, occupation, and employer.
      • Do not use your campaign funds for non-campaign expenses or to make independent expenditures to support or oppose other candidates.
      • If you receive $1000 or more from a single source in the last 90 days before the election, you must disclose it within 24 hours, even if the contributions are from your personal funds. This includes separate contributions from the same source that add up to $1000 or more.
      • Not all Marin County cities and districts have the same campaign contribution limits. To know the limits for your office, contact the local official.
      • Important! Your campaign finance reporting requirements do not end with the election. Be prepared to continuously file reports until you close your committee.
    • State Offices

      If you’re a candidate for a state office you are required to register with the California Secretary of State and file financial activity reports. Candidates and committees who raise or spend more than $25,000 must electronically file their reports; those who spend or raise less than $25,000 may file paper reports.

      Voluntary Expenditure Ceilings for State Candidates

      Expenditure limits may vary by office in the Primary and General elections, and are found on the Secretary of State’s website. You must file the Candidate Intention Statement (Form 501) to accept the voluntary expenditure ceiling established for each election.

    • Reporting Deadlines for Local Candidates

      Period reported thru – June 30, 2020:

      • Deadline July 31, 2020, form 460 Semi-Annual

      Period reported July 1, 2020 – September 19, 2020:

      • Deadline September 24, 2020, form 460 Pre-election (1st)

      Period reported September 20, 2020 – October 17, 2020:

      • Deadline October 22, 2020, form 460 Pre-election (2nd)

      Period reported August 5, 2020 – November 3, 2020:

      • Deadline within 24 hours, form 497 Late Contribution Report ($1000 or more in aggregate from a single source)

      Period reported October 18, 2020 – Dec. 31, 2020:

      • Deadline February 1, 2021, form 460 Semi-Annual

      E-filing! Local candidate finance statements can be e-filed. It’s free, saves time, and you won’t have to provide signatures or hard copies. For more information call 415-473-6437.

    • Fines and Penalties

      Candidates and committees that do not file or who file late deny the public the right to view timely campaign finance reports. State law gives local elections officials and the Fair Political Practices Commission the authority to assess fines due to filing violations. Government Code § 91013.

      The fines levied by the Marin County Elections Department are $10 per day for each day past the deadline until the required report is filed. If the fines are not paid, the Elections Department may file a civil action against the candidate/committee for the amount owed. If the report is never filed the Elections Department will report the candidate/committee to the Enforcement Division of the Fair Political Practices Commission.

      The filing officer for Marin County Elections Department is allowed to waive a fine if it’s determined the late filing was not intentional and the report was filed before the waiver of liability period ends.

    • Reporting Violations

      If a committee or candidate has violated any campaign disclosure requirement, any person in the affected jurisdiction may file an action or ask for an injunction Government Code § 91003. Marin County Elections Department will not investigate or prosecute violations, except for civil actions to collect fines.

    • Candidate Campaign Finance Forms

      The following is a list of forms used by most local candidates. Other reports may be required depending on the committee’s activity. Please refer to FPPC Manual 2 for more information.

      • Form 501 – Statement of Intent

        Candidates for state or local office must file this form prior to solicitation or receipt of any contribution, or expenditure of personal funds used for the election. Exception: This form is not required if you will not solicit or receive contributions from other persons, and the only expenditures will be from your personal funds used for the filing fee and statement of qualification in the voter information guide. Candidates who file a Form 501 must establish a separate bank account with a financial institution in California, if they accept contributions. Refer to FPPC Manual 2 for more information.

      • Form 470 – Campaign Statement

        All candidates who have filed a Form 501 must file at least one campaign statement before the election. Candidates may file the Form 470 if they do not have a controlled committee, do not anticipate receiving contributions totaling $2000 or more during the calendar year, and do not anticipate spending $2000 or more during the calendar year. The Form 470 is filed once, by the first pre-election due date. If the $2000 threshold is achieved, candidates must file the Form 470 Supplement, and establish a campaign committee. Please refer to Manual 2 for more information.

      • Form 410 – Statement of Organization

        Candidates must use Form 410 to establish a campaign committee, no later than within 10 days after the committee has spent or received $2000 or more. Form 410 is also used to amend changes to the committee and terminate the committee. By establishing a committee the candidate is charged a $50 annual fee, and is required to file periodic campaign statements until the committee is closed. All committees must file the Form 410 with the Secretary of State and their local filing agency. Please refer to Manual 2 for more information.

      • Form 460 – Recipient Committee Campaign Statement

        Candidate controlled committees are required to use Form 460 to report all campaign activity during scheduled semi-annual and pre-election periods. Statements must be completed fully and accurately and filed on time per the filing schedule. Please refer to Manual 2 for more information.

      • Form 497 – Late Contribution Report

        A Late Contribution Report must be filed if a committee controlled by the candidate receives a contribution (including aggregated amounts) from a single source, or makes contributions, totaling $1,000 or more to a candidate or primarily formed committee during the 90 days prior to the candidate’s election. This form does not have a waiver of liability period if not filed within 24 hours.

      • Form 461 – Major Donor and Independent Expenditure Committee

        An individual or entity that makes monetary or nonmonetary contributions (including loans) to local officeholders, candidates, and committees totaling $10,000 or more in a calendar year; or an individual or entity that makes independent expenditures totaling $1,000 or more in a calendar year to support or oppose state or local candidates, or ballot measures.

    • Questions?

      Campaign finance reporting and fund-raising laws change frequently, so make sure you understand your requirements.

      If you are a local candidate, see the FPPC Manual 2 or contact:

      • Email Dan Miller
      • Tel. (415) 473-6437 – Fax: (415) 473-6447

      Candidates for state offices may consult the FPPC Manual 1 or contact:

      • Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC)
        • 428 J Street, Suite 620, Sacramento, CA 95814
        • Tel. (866) 275-3772, or go to www.fppc.ca.gov
      • Secretary of State, Political Reform Division

      Candidates for federal offices must contact:

      • Federal Election Commission:

What All Campaigns Need to Know

  • Advertising & Mailers– disclaimers required

    State regulations require candidate committees to add disclaimers to most advertisements and communications including electronic media. “Paid for by committee name is the basic disclaimer required by law on most campaign communications sent by a committee Government Code §§ 84305 et seq; § 84501 thru § 84511. Information about political advertising, communications and mass mailings can be found on the FPPC’s website and manuals.

  • Political Signs

    Before placing political signs make sure you know the state, county, and municipal rules.

    • County Rules
      • Signs are not allowed in unincorporated areas of Marin County, except on a residence or place of business with owner’s consent. Signs must not be placed more than 90 days prior to, or more than 10 days after an election. County Code 22.28.060.
      • To report violations regarding signs on private property contact the County Planning Department at 415-473-6269 for information about how to file a complaint.
      • Signs are not allowed on County owned and maintained public property, right-of-way, medians, or any location that impairs pedestrian and vehicular safety. County Code 22.28.030.
      • To report violations please contact the County Department of Public Works at (415) 473-3755.
    • Municipal Rules

      Contact information for municipal rules about posting signs within city limits.

      • Belvedere
        • City Clerk, (415) 435-8913
      • Corte Madera
        • Town Clerk, (415) 927-5085
      • Fairfax
        • Principal Planner, (415) 453-1584
      • Larkspur
        • City Clerk, (415) 927-5002
      • Mill Valley
        • City Clerk, (415) 388-4864
      • Novato
        • City Clerk, (415) 899-8900
      • Ross
        • Town Clerk, (415) 453-1453 x105
      • San Anselmo
        • Town Clerk, (415) 258-4660
      • San Rafael
        • Public Works, (415) 485-3355
      • Sausalito
        • City Clerk, (415) 289-4134
      • Tiburon
        • Planning Department, (415) 435-7390
    • State Rules

      State rules about posting signs on state owned property, contact the Department of Transportation, Outdoor Advertising Program: (916) 654-5327.

  • Political Campaign Videos and Printed Material

    Candidates who wish to film a paid political commercial in or around the Civic Center should contact the Community Development Agency (CDA) by calling 415-473-6269 or 415-473-7875 to ask about permit requirements. Still photographs for printed campaign materials may be taken so long as the photographs are not used in a way that would compromise confidentiality or business operations. In order to best assure strict neutrality and uphold the integrity of the elections process, under no circumstances are candidates allowed to film or photograph near the Elections Department to be used for campaign purposes.

  • Electioneering

    It is a misdemeanor to do any of these things within 100 feet, of the polling place entrance — E.C. § 18370:

    • Pass around petitions.
    • Try to influence how a voter votes.
    • Put up signs about voter qualifications.
    • Talk to voters about their qualifications to vote.
    • Photograph, film, or record a voter as s/he goes into or leaves a polling place.
  • Registration and Election Data

    Pursuant to Elections Code Sections 2187(g) and 2188, voter registration information is available to candidates for election & campaign purposes.

    Each request to purchase voter registration information must be submitted with identification on applications provided by the Marin County Elections Department. The applications, instructions and pricing can be found on the Purchasing Voter Registration Information page on our website.

    1. Use of this data, including but not limited to using registration information for purposes of communicating with voters, is allowed pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Division 7, Article 1, Section 19003.
    2. Prohibited uses are pursuant to California Elections Code Sections 2194, and include but are not limited to any personal, private, or commercial purpose advertising, solicitation, sale, or marketing of products; or the harassment of any voter or voter’s household.
  • Who should you contact about campaign violations?

    The Marin County Elections Department is NOT an enforcement agency regarding possible election violations. We are unable to investigate any of the violations listed below.

    Listed below are resources to contact regarding suspected election violations: