Third Party Advertisers

What is a Third Party Advertisement?

A third party advertisement is any message in a broadcast, print, electronic, or other medium that has the purpose of promoting, supporting, or opposing:

• A candidate; or
• A “yes” or “no” answer to a question on the ballot

Advertisements can include traditional media as well as campaign materials such as signs, brochures, flyers, or online ads.

A “third party” is any individual or entity that is not a candidate. Third party advertising must be conducted independently of a candidate’s campaign.

What is NOT Third Party Advertising?

Activities that do not involve spending money are not considered third party advertising.

Examples include:

• Speaking with friends, family, or neighbours
• Posting opinions on social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X)
• Sending emails or messages to a group or mailing list

Who Can Register as a Third Party Advertiser?

Only those who are registered may spend money on third party advertising.

The following are eligible to register:

• An individual who is a resident of Ontario
• A corporation carrying on business in Ontario
• A trade union that holds bargaining rights for employees in Ontario

Note:
If multiple corporations are owned or controlled by the same person or group, they are considered one entity, and only one may register in a municipality.

There is no restriction preventing family members, campaign staff, or supporters of a candidate from registering. However, all third party advertising must be conducted independently, without coordination with any candidate.

Who Cannot Register?

The following are not eligible to register as third party advertisers:

• A candidate running for municipal council or school board
• Federal or provincial political parties
• Candidates in a provincial or federal election (while they are a candidate)
• Groups or organizations that are not corporations (e.g., clubs, associations, or informal groups)

Members of ineligible groups may register as individuals and participate separately.

How to Register

To register as a third party advertiser, an individual or a representative of a corporation or trade union must file a Notice of Registration (Form 7) with the Clerk.

Registration must be completed in person by the applicant or an agent, and by appointment.

To book an appointment:

• Email the Clerk
• Call 705-639-5343
• Visit the Municipal Office at 2357 County Road 45

Important: You must be registered before you can spend any money on third party advertising.

Financial Responsibilities

Third party advertisers are required to:

• Track all contributions and expenses
• Follow spending limits set under the Municipal Elections Act, 1996
• File a Financial Statement (Form 8) by the required deadline

Failure to file a financial statement by the deadline may result in penalties.

Additional Information