Candidate filing documents - November 6, 2018 Election

To run for office in November, there are several documents - some mandatory others optional - to be completed. 

Declaration of Candidacy – available July 16 to August 10. This document is mandatory and contains how your name and ballot designation will appear on the ballot.  If the incumbent does not file, anyone other than the incumbent may come in and complete a Declaration of Candidacy by 5pm Wednesday, August 15. This form must be obtained from and filed with the County Clerk’s Office, 701 Ocean Street, Room 310, Santa Cruz. This form is not available online.

You may complete the Candidate Preliminary Information to assist us in completing your Declaration of Candidacy. 

Forms that are available as a PDF fillable form, include:

• Ballot designation worksheet - must be filed with your Declaration of Candidacy.
• Candidate statement agreement – local - if you are filing a Candidate Statement of Qualifications, you must file it with this document. 
• Candidate statement agreement – federal & state - if you are filing a Candidate Statement of Qualifications, you must file it with this document. 
• Internet Waiver - to allow us to post your contact information on our website
• Code of Fair Campaign Practices - optional
• Statement of Responsibility for Caltrans – political signs - required if you are putting up political signs.

Anyone interested in running for a city office, must contact the City Clerk for that city.

• Capitola City Clerk’s Office – 420 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-475-7300
• Santa Cruz City Clerk’s Office – 809 Center Street, Santa Cruz, 831-420-5038
• Scotts Valley City Clerk’s Office – 1 Civic Center Dr., Scotts Valley, 831-440-5600
• Watsonville City Clerk’s Office – 275 Main St., 4th Floor, Watsonville, 831-768-3040

You are encouraged to file your candidacy papers in person, however, you may authorize someone else to pick up documents on your behalf.

Authorization to pick up candidate documents