Community councils

Stand for election to your community council

Community councils need people who care about their area. If you want to make a difference, you can stand for election.

What community councillors do

Community councillors help make sure the council works well. You must:

  • commit to the role and follow our standards
  • attend meetings regularly
  • take part in discussions and decisions
  • speak for the whole community, not just yourself

Each community council has between 7 and 13 members, depending on the population.

Who can stand for election

You can stand if you:

  • are aged 16 or over
  • are registered to vote in the area

To check if you are eligible to become a community councillor, contact the Electoral Registration Office.

When elections happen

Community council elections are held every 4 years. The next election will be in Autumn 2027.

Community councils below half membership or seeking re-establishment

The Interim Notice of Election was published on Thursday 20 August 2026 for community councils below half membership or seeking re-establishment.

A contest will be held on Thursday 8 October 2026 for Latheron, Lybster and Clyth community council as following the withdrawal deadline of 12 noon on Tuesday 15 September 2026, the number of valid nominations exceeds the number of available vacancies.

The following notices have been published: 

View the timetable

Newly formed or merged community councils

The Interim Notice of Election was published on Thursday 27 August 2026 for newly formed or merged community councils.

Following the close of nominations at 12 noon on Monday 14 September 2026, notices have been published:

The maximum number of members for each community council can be found in the Scheme of Establishment.

Page last modified: 15 September 2026

Community council elections

For any questions about the election process, contact the elections team.

Telephone: 01349 886 657

Electoral Registration Office

If you are a resident in the area and have not registered to vote, or think that your name may be missing from the Register, call the Electoral Registration Office’s team for advice.

Telephone: 0800 393 783