What are election spending limits in Canada?

Election spending limits are statutory limits set by the federal Canada Elections Act on what candidates, political parties, and third parties can spend during federal elections. The limits are designed to prevent any one entity (or wealthy individual) from dominating election communication and to maintain a level playing field. The limits are adjusted for inflation annually and apply only during the official election period (typically 36 to 50 days from the issue of the writs to Election Day).

Candidate spending limits depend on the riding's size and population. The 2025 federal election limit was about $135,000 per candidate per riding, with adjustments for the length of the election period and the riding's geographical and population characteristics. Candidates who spend more than the limit can be disqualified from office, fined, or imprisoned. The Commissioner of Canada Elections investigates over-spending complaints.

Political party spending limits are set nationally. The 2025 federal election limit was about $30 million per registered party (with adjustments for election period length). National parties also support their candidates with national advertising, leader's tour costs, polling, and other infrastructure. National party spending is monitored by Elections Canada and audited by the Office of the Chief Financial Officer of each party. Parties that exceed the limit face fines and potential delisting.

Third-party spending limits were introduced in 2000 after the Supreme Court of Canada's decision in Libman v. Quebec (1997, on a Quebec referendum case) and Harper v. Canada (Attorney General) (2004), which upheld the federal limits as a justified section 1 limit on freedom of expression. The current third-party advertising spending limit is about $570,000 nationally during an election (about $11,000 per riding). Third parties (which include unions, advocacy groups, and individuals who advertise for or against candidates or parties) must register with Elections Canada if they spend more than $500. Bill C-76 of 2018 expanded regulation to cover the pre-election period (about two months before the formal election period) and added new disclosure requirements. The 2024 Bill C-65 amendments further tightened third-party regulations to address foreign interference.