Local Government Elections
How to Vote in a By-election
You can vote on polling day, as determined by the Returning Officer, between 7am and 10pm.
After the Notice of Election is published, all registered voters will receive a poll card - either for voting in person or by post.
To vote you must be:
- registered with the Electoral Registration Office
- living in the electoral ward where the election is taking place
If you are not sure if you are registered, contact the Electoral Registration Office on:
Email: ero@highland.gov.uk
Phone: 0800 393783
For more information How to vote – Highland and Western Isles
Voting at a Polling Station
Your poll card will hold the information where your designated polling station is, alternatively you can check online.
Voting by Post
Watch the video below for help with completing your postal voting pack.
Voting by Proxy
If you are unable to vote in person you can ask someone to vote on your behalf.
For more information How to vote – Highland and Western Isles
Email: ero@highland.gov.uk
Phone: 0800 393783
How to fill out your Ballot Paper
How the Single Transferable Vote (STV) works
Scottish Local Government Elections are conducted under the Single Transferable Vote (STV) electoral system. This means you should rank the candidates in order of your preference.
Electors are advised to vote using numbers as follows:
Number the candidates in the order of your choice.
- Put the number 1 in the box next to the name of the candidate who is your first choice.
- Put the number 2 in the box next to your second choice.
- Put the number 3 in the box next to your third choice and so on.
You can make as many choices as you wish.