How to File as a Candidate

Campaign Filing Packet Candidate Requirements 

There are different filing requirements, dates and locations depending on the political office you are running for. 

To run for office, you must meet all of these requirements:

  • Must be a citizen of the United States
  • Must be an eligible voter
  • Must be at least 21 years old when assuming office
  • Must reside in their district for at least 30 days before the General Election
  • Must have no other affidavit on file for any other elected office
  • Must pay $5 filing fee for local election 
  • Must file an Affidavit of Candidacy form in the office of the City Clerk or by mail
  • Must complete and file Campaign Finance Reports

For a complete list of requirements by office, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website. 

Filing Process

Candidates may file in one of two ways: 

  1. Mail a completed, notarized Affidavit of Candidacy and the filing fee (check) to filing location. See filing locations below. 
  2. In person, complete an Affidavit of Candidacy and pay the filing fee at filing location. 

Filing Dates for City Council Elections

  • Before a general election, there is a two-week filing period during which candidates can submit their affidavit of candidacy to the filing officer. Prospective candidates should contact the City Clerk to learn which offices will be on the ballot at the upcoming election. Special elections to fill vacancies may have filing periods of different lengths.
  • Candidate filing dates for the 2023 November Election: 
    • Begins August 1, 2023 until August 15, 2023 at 5 pm. 

Filing Locations

For more information, email Rosemount's Office of the City Clerk or call 651-322-2003. 

Minnesota Campaign & Public Disclosure Board

Candidates that file with the City of Rosemount for local races will receive a packet of information containing materials regarding campaigning, signage, a precinct map and information on where other material may be obtained. This packet will be reviewed with the candidates at the time of filing. 

Minnesota Campaign & Public Disclosure Board Website

Fair Campaign Practices

View the Minnesota Secretary of State Campaign Manual

View the Campaign Filing Packet

Campaign Signage

  • May be posted from 46 days prior to the State Primary Election until 10 days after the General Election. (MN State Statute 211B.045)
  • May not be placed upon public lands or any street right of way or on private property without the permission of the owner or lessee. Review City campaign sign regulations.
  • Posters must verify Dakota County's policy on placement of signs. 

Campaign Financial Reporting Requirements

During a year when the candidate's name is on the ballot, at least three finance reports must be filed: 

  • 10 days before the primary or special primary
  • 10 days before the General Election or Special Election
  • 30 days after the General or Special Election


  • Initial Finance Report must be filed within 14 days of receiving or disbursing contributions of more than $750.
  • Annual Report is required by January 31 of each year and until a Final Report is filed. 
  • Final Report is 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. 
  • Certificate of Filing Report must be filed no later than 7 days after the General Election. 
  • A Statement of Economic Interest Report is required by all elective office candidates (except judicial candidates) 
    • within 14 days after filing an affidavit of candidacy; and
    • within 60 days of accepting employment.
    • While in office, Supplementary Statements are filed annually by January 25.