Local elections are just three weeks away – are you ready to vote?
With the West Sussex County election just three weeks away, there is some important information to be aware of.
The election takes place on Thursday 7 May, but next week sees important deadlines.
Monday 20 April 2026
Is the last day you can register to vote in these elections - register to vote by 11:59pm Register to vote | Arun District Council
Tuesday 21 April
This is the last day you can apply for and return your postal vote application form or make amendments to any existing voting arrangements. If you would like to vote by post, apply now to make sure your application is processed early. Deadline is 5pm.
Postal votes | Arun District Council
Tuesday 28 April
This is the last day you can apply for and return your 'proxy vote application.' Deadline is 5pm. Proxy votes | Arun District Council
If you cannot get to the polling station on polling day and have missed the deadline for a postal vote this is an alternative way to vote. You can appoint someone to vote on your behalf at your polling station on 7 May 2026.
Tuesday 28 April - apply for free voter ID by 5pm
This is the last day you can apply for and return your 'voter authority certificate' (a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) is a free form of photo ID so people can vote in person at polling stations if they don't have an accepted photo ID).
Accepted forms of photo ID can be found here:
Accepted forms of photo ID | Electoral Commission
To apply for a VAC , click here:
Apply for photo ID to vote (called a 'Voter Authority Certificate') - GOV.UK
If you don't have valid photo ID with you at the polling station, you will not be able to vote.
The list of the candidates for each division are available on the West Sussex County Council website so that you can see who the candidates are: County council election - West Sussex County Council
Poll cards have been issued, and it is important that voters check the details of the polling station carefully as that may not be their usual location.
Postal votes are being sent out soon to those who applied by 7 April - if you haven't received yours by 30 April call our helpline on 01903 737616. If you applied after 7 April your postal vote will be sent out first class on 27 April 2026.