What is Third Party Advertising
Third party advertising refers to advertisements or other materials that support, promote or oppose a candidate, or support, promote or oppose a “yes” or “no” answer to a question on the ballot. The meaning of “third party” in this context means a person or entity who is not a candidate.
Third party advertising is separate from any candidate’s campaign, and must be done independently from a candidate. Any advertisements or materials that are made and distributed by a candidate, or under a candidate’s direction, are part of the candidate’s campaign.
Third party advertising is a way for those outside of the candidate’s campaign to express support of or opposition to candidates (or a “yes” or “no” answer to a question on the ballot) and to try to persuade voters to vote a certain way.
For information on Third Party Advertising you can see the 2026 Third Party Advertisers Guide produced by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Who can be a Third Party Advertiser
Only those who have registered can spend money on third party advertising. The following are eligible to register as a third party advertiser:
- any person who is a resident in Ontario
- a corporation carrying on business in Ontario
- a trade union that holds bargaining rights for employees in Ontario
Registration Forms
Registrations as a Third-Party Advertiser can be accepted by the Clerk or designate, between the first day of nominations (May 1, 2026) and the last Friday before Election Day (Friday October 23, 2026). There is no filing fee.
In order to register as a Third-Party Advertiser you must file the Notice of Registration with the Municipal Clerk or Designate at one of the two places able to take Nominations:
Municipal Office
4305 Hamilton Road
Dorchester ON
Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Thorndale Lions Community Centre
266 Queen Street
Thorndale ON
Monday to Thursday
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Please note that if you are filing a Third Party Advertising Form on behalf of a corporation or trade union please ensure you have government issued identification and proof that you are authorized to act on behalf of the corporation or trade union's behalf.
The Clerk must certify your registration in order for any third party advertising can begin.
Withdrawal of Registration
Third Party Advertising registration can be withdrawn before voting day by notifying the Clerk in writing no later than Friday October 23, 2026.
