Elections

Elected Positions

The City of Sunnyvale is a Charter City with a Council-Manager form of government. Seven councilmembers are elected at-large by City voters for numbered seats in November of even-numbered years.

Councilmembers serve a four-year term. The City has a term limit of two four-year terms in a twelve-year period. Council selects the mayor biennially and the vice mayor annually.

At-large vs. District Elections

The City is exploring changing to a district-based electoral system for selecting City councilmembers.

District-based election background and outreach

Upcoming Elections

The next regular election for Sunnyvale City Council will be Nov. 3, 2020. Individuals interested in running for City Council should contact the City Clerk's office for information on filing requirements and financial disclosure obligations. 

For more information, email the City Clerk or call 408-730-7483.

Register to Vote

Who is Eligible to Run for Election?

Candidates must be:

• A resident of Sunnyvale
• Registered to vote in Sunnyvale
• A U.S. citizen
• 18 years or older

Candidates can file campaign finance disclosure statements and members of the public can search campaign finance records using the NetFile electronic filing system.

If you would like to file a Form 501 Candidate Intention Statement, or if you think you may have financial disclosure obligations, contact the Office of the City Clerk.