Petition requirements

We welcome petitions as another way for residents to let us know their concerns.

Petitions can be submitted to us online or by post. Anyone who lives, works or studies in Woking borough can submit a petition to us.

Submit a petition online

Submit a petition by post

Terms and conditions

The petition must refer to a matter which is relevant to the functions of the council .

Petitions submitted to us must follow our terms and conditions, which include:

  • a clear and concise statement covering the subject of the petition
  • a statement about what action the petitioners wish us to take
  • the name, address and signature of any person supporting the petition.

A petition will not be accepted where:

  • It is considered to be vexatious, abusive or otherwise inappropriate. We may not decide to proceed with the petition if it does not follow the guidelines outlined listed above. In this instance, we will write to you and explain the reasons.
  • It applies to a planning or licensing application, or is a statutory petition. For example, requesting a referendum on having an elected mayor.
  • It refers to a decision where there is an existing right of appeal. For example, Council Tax banding and Non Domestic Rates.
  • It is a duplicate or near duplicate of a similar petition received or submitted within the last six months.

Number of signatures required

Our response depends on the number of signatories to the petition. The table below summarises our standard approach.

Number of signatories     Response
Less than 10     Response from officer (treated as standard correspondence).
10 to 99      Response from Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council.
At least 100
 
Petition is automatically referred to the Executive.
At least 200        

Officer(s) called to provide evidence at a meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. This threshold only applies where such action is requested in the petition.

At least 400    Petition is automatically referred to a meeting of Full Council.

More information

View our petitions scheme guide for full details

Contact us

Before considering whether or not to submit a petition to us, you may want to discuss your issue with your local councillor  who may be able to help you with the issue. Or, contact us to discuss your concerns.

Email: memberservices@woking.gov.uk
Phone: 01483 755 855