Guidance for Candidates at Parish council elections in England

Qualifications and disqualifications for standing for election

In order to stand as a candidate you must ensure that you meet the necessary qualifications and be sure that you are not disqualified. This section sets out the qualifications and disqualifications for standing for election.

For elections taking place on or after 2 May 2024, the Elections Act 2022 has updated the grounds on which you may be disqualified. More information can be found in our guidance on disqualifications.

For elections taking place on or after 7 May 2024, the Elections Act 2022 removes the general right of European Union citizens stand at parish council elections. This will mean that in order stand as a candidate at a parish council election, an EU citizen will be required to be a qualifying EU citizen or an EU citizen with retained rights.

Last updated: 21 March 2024