City Elections

Voting Day Graphic


City Elections & Special Elections

City elections are held on the second Tuesday in June of even-numbered years. Special elections are held as the City Commission calls for and approves them. 

Any person who is a qualified elector and a resident of the City of Bismarck is qualified to be a member of the Board of City Commissioners and Board of Park Commissioners. Candidates are required to file a Petition/Certificate of Nomination (SFN 02704) (PDF) with at least 300 signatures, and a Statement of Interests (SFN 10172) (PDF). Forms are also available on the ND Secretary of State’s website, or by contacting Administration at 701-355-1300. 


Voting In-person, Voting Absentee or By Mail 

For more information, contact the Burleigh County Auditor at 701-222-6718 or visit the Burleigh County website.


Petitions

Election candidates must be over the age of 18 years and have been a resident of the City of Bismarck for at least nine months prior to the election.

It is permissible for a candidate to complete a petition form and then transmit it electronically to others allowing them to print the form. Then, for them to collect signatures (written not typed) from qualified electors (residing within the political subdivision) on the candidate’s behalf. 

When the circulator has secured signatures, they may scan the petition and return it electronically to the candidate who in turn can then transmit the petitions electronically, along with other required documents, to the filing officer for the political subdivision in which the candidate is seeking a position and placement on the ballot. 

To get on the ballot, candidates must collect 300 signatures from Bismarck residents. Election administrators suggest collecting up to 350 signatures and turning in petitions at least one day before the deadline (some signatures may be eliminated if not from valid city residents). Post office boxes are not considered a valid address. Only complete addresses are accepted.

  • A complete filing must include:
    • Petition/Certification of Nomination
    • A Statement of Interests
    • Filing Deadline is April 8, 2024 at 4 PM in the City Administration Department, 221 North 5th Street (4th floor)
  • There are several open positions for election including two City Commissioner positions, on June 11, 2024.


Election Resources