Become a councillor

We need people from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect the communities served to put themselves forward for election. You don’t need any experience or special qualifications. Your life experience, everyday skills, passion and commitment to people and communities are vital, and it is important that the Council reflects the local population.

To be a councillor you need to be:

• At least 18 years old
• British or a citizen of the Commonwealth. You may also be eligible as a citizen of the European Union, however the criteria have changed now that the UK has left the European Union. Please check on the Electoral Commission website for advice about EU citizen’s voting and candidacy rights in local elections
• Registered to vote in the area or have lived, worked, or owned property in the area for at least 12 months before an election.

You cannot be a councillor if you:

• Currently work for Exeter City Council. You can work for any other local authority, as long as you are not in a politically restricted post
• Are the subject of bankruptcy restrictions or interim order
• Have been sentenced to prison for three months or more (including suspended sentences) during the five years before election day
• Have been convicted of a corrupt or illegal practice by an election court
• Are subject to any relevant notification requirements, or a relevant order, in respect of a sexual offence.