How to vote
You can vote in an election by going to your nominated polling place, requesting a postal post or nominating a proxy.
Vote in person
We'll send you a polling card if you are registered and eligible to vote in an election. You should get this three or four weeks before the election. Let us know if you think you're registered but don't receive a polling card.
Your polling card will tell you where and when you can vote. You're allocated a polling place based on where you live in Dumfries and Galloway.
Vote by post
Apply to vote by post if you're registered to vote but can't get to the polling station on election day. Completed applications should be returned to the Assessor and Electoral Registration Officer, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Militia Hous, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2HR.
A paper copy is preferred as this gives us a high quality signature to use to validate the postal vote. If you have limited time a scanned copy may be sent to ero@dumgal.gov.uk but please be sure to add in contact details in case there are legibility issues. Unfortunately we are unable to accept photographs of the form.
Your postal vote application can be for a particular election, a limited period of time or until further notice. Email ero@dumgal.gov.uk or call 01387 260627 to cancel your postal vote.
You'll receive a voting pack with full instructions before the election if you're registered for a postal vote. Postal voting packs can be sent to addresses in the UK and overseas. It might be better to appoint a proxy to vote on your behalf if you live overseas.
Vote by proxy
Anyone who is registered can apply for a proxy vote (someone to vote for you). Completed applications should be returned to the Assessor and Electoral Registration Officer, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Militia Hous, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2HR.
The person you wish to appoint as your proxy can only act as proxy if they are registered and eligible to vote. A person cannot be a proxy for more than two people at any one election or referendum, unless they are a close relative.
When you apply for a proxy vote you must provide a reason. You can choose to vote by proxy if you:
- are on holiday/working abroad when the election takes place
- have a physical condition that means you can't go to the polling station
- are working during all hours of voting
- are studying away from home
- have moved house since registering and can't go to your old polling station
- are a British citizen living overseas
- are a crown servant or a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces
Your proxy will be sent a poll card and will need to attend the polling station on election day unless they have chosen to vote for you by post.
