Before You Vote: Referendum Reference Guide

What each question asks, what a result means, and where to read more. Plain language, no persuasion. 

Dates to Know

September 25
Due to the high volume of special ballot requests, Elections Alberta has changed the deadline to request a special mail-in ballot to September 25. Your ballots must be returned via mail to Elections Alberta in Edmonton by October 16.
Oct 13–17
Advance Polls are open at select locations. We will update this site with a link to find your polls online when it becomes available.
October 19
Referendum Day.
Confirm voting details at Elections Alberta.

People who decide when, where, and how they'll vote - in advance - are more likely to cast their ballot. Make your vote plan today.

What "Binding" and "Non-Binding" Mean

Non-binding

The government is not required to act on the result, but can — regardless of the outcome.

This applies to Questions 1–5 and 10.

Binding

The government must take steps within its power to pursue the result with other provinces. It needs other governments to agree, but cannot force them.

This applies to Questions 6–9.

No question changes anything by itself on October 20. Learn more about the referendum process here.

Learn About the Questions

There are 10 questions, each with their own numbered, coloured ballot. The Government of Alberta has grouped the questions into three categories. Explore the questions and find information for each, below.

0 of 10 questions reviewed
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You've reviewed each of the questions in the October referendum. Now, time to make your vote plan. Visit Nonprofits Vote to make your plan and help get others out to vote.

Make your vote plan →

Nonpartisan information only. This page explains what the questions say and how the process works; how anyone votes is entirely their choice. 

New to referendums? Start with What is a Referendum. Official voting details, including where and how to vote: Elections Alberta

Question wording from the Government of Alberta’s Orders in Council. Prepared by the Nonprofit Chamber as part of the Before You Vote series. Last updated August 28, 2026. 

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