How to File as a Candidate

Affidavit of Candidacy

An Affidavit of Candidacy must be filed at City Hall, or by mail 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during the filing period. A filing fee of $5.00 is required for Municipal candidates. 

For more information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

Candidate Requirements


​​ For all state or local offices, candidates must swear (or affirm) that:
  • I am eligible to vote in Minnesota;
  • I have not filed for the same or any other office at the upcoming primary or general election;
  • I am, or will be on assuming office, 21 years of age or more;
  • I will have maintained residence in this district for at least 30 days before the general election; and
  • If a major political party candidate, I either participated in the party's most recent precinct caucuses or intend to vote for a majority of that party's candidates at the next general election.
  • Complete and file Campaign Finance Report
Campaign Finance Report
During a year when the candidate filing is on the ballot at least three finance reports must be filed:
  • 10 days before the primary 
  • 10 days before the general 
  • 30 days after the general 
Initial Finance Report 

Must be filed within 14 days of receiving or disbursing contributions of more than $750.

Annual Report

Required by January 31 of each year and until a Final Report is filed.

Final Report

Filed by a candidate or committee when all debts have been settled and all assets in excess of $100 in the aggregate are disposed of.

Certification of Filing Report

Filed no later than 7 days after the General Election.

Campaign Signs
The City regulates campaign signs; view the campaign sign regulations. 



For more information and the required documents, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website.