Skip to main content

Political activity guidance for City employees

City officers and employees may only participate in certain kinds of political activity. The Board of Ethics has developed guidance to describe what is allowed. For more information, view Board Regulation 8, the Board of Ethics’ Election Activity Quick Reference site, and the resources below.

Elected officials are not bound by these regulations. More details can be found in the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, 10-107(3).

Unsure what political activity rules apply to you? Try out our new Political Activity Rule Tool!

Name Description Released Format
Name: Which political activity rules apply to you? PDF Description: A summary of political activity rules that apply to different types of City officers and employees. Released: July 10, 2020 Format:
Name: Political activity social media guide PDF Description: This guide gives a brief overview of how political activity rules fo City officers and employees apply to social media. Released: September 7, 2020 Format:
Name: Quick Reference Guide: Temp Assignments for the 2025 Primary Election PDF Description: Basic outline of how the political activity rules apply to Exec branch officers and employees on temporary assignment to the Office of the City Commissioners for the 2025 Primary Election season. Released: February 28, 2025 Format:
Name: Dear Philly Candidates PDF Description: Open letter to Philadelphia candidates explaining what they should not do when interacting with City officers and employees due to the City's political activity restrictions. Released: January 26, 2023 Format:

Top