Candidate filing documents

Candidates 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

To prepare the Declaration of Candidacy, please complete the Candidate Preliminary Information.

Declaration of Candidacy – available July 18 to August 12. If the incumbent does not file, anyone other than the incumbent may come in and complete a Declaration of Candidacy by 5pm Wednesday, August 17. This form must be picked up from the County Clerk’s Office, 701 Ocean Street, Room 210, Santa Cruz. This form is not available online.

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

• Ballot designation worksheet
• Candidate statement agreement – local
• Candidate statement agreement – federal & state
• Internet Waiver - to allow us to post your contact information on our website
• Code of Fair Campaign Practices
• Statement of Responsibility for Caltrans – 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