September 12, 2019, is the first day you can file to run for office in the City of Salem for the May 19, 2020, primary election. City offices that are up for reelection in 2020 are:

Mayor

City Councilors for Wards 1, 3, 5, and 7

If you are interested in running for any of these offices, you are encouraged to set up an appointment to review important filing deadlines, paperwork, and process questions with the City Recorder. To schedule an appointment, contact the City Recorder by email or by phone.

Filing dates

March 10, 2020, at 4:00 p.m.

These three documents must be filed with the City Recorder's office:

March 12, 2020, by 5:00 p.m.

Last day to file Candidate's Statement for inclusion in the voter's pamphlet with Marion County Elections

March 13, 2020, by 5:00 p.m.

Last day to withdraw a completed nomination petition

How to file

Please review these important instructions for filing for office. Forms are available from the Secretary of State's Election Division.

How to withdraw

To withdraw from candidacy or nomination, a candidate must file a Withdrawal of Candidacy of Nomination (Form SEL 150) with the City Recorder or designee. This form must be filed no later than March 13, 2020 by 5:00 p.m., otherwise the candidate's name will be printed on the ballot.

Sign regulations

The City of Salem has regulations regarding signs. Before displaying political advertisement signs or distributing leaflets or handbills, please read the guidelines carefully.

Political signs are considered "temporary signs" in the Salem Sign Code. Such signs must meet the standards specified in Salem Revised Code Chapter 900.

You must also obtain permission from the property owner or resident before placing any signs on private property.

Adhering to the sign code will make your campaign more effective, lessen criticism of your signs, and maintain the neat and attractive appearance of our community. Contact Planning Services for more information about signs.