Local elections are generally held every five years in the month of June. The actual polling day, which is the same in all areas, is fixed by order of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
The Minister also fixes the polling period which must last at least twelve hours between 7.00am and 10.30pm. However, in the event of weather or transport difficulties, polling on islands may take place in advance of polling day and the polling period may be reduced to four hours.
The 2009 Local Elections take place on Friday, June 5th, with polling stations open between 7am and 10pm.