About Public Records Requests

The California State Legislature adopted the Public Records Act in 1975. It is designed to give the public access to information in possession of public agencies. The Act also provides that public records shall be open for inspection during regular office hours of the agency. The public can inspect any record unless the record is exempted from disclosure under the act.

How do I make a Public Records request?

• Please complete and submit a Request For Public Records online form.

Who can initiate a Public Records request?

• Anyone may initiate a request for public records.

What type of information can I request?

• Public Records requests may be used to obtain "agency records," which include a wide variety of documents and other materials (including print, photographic, and electronic formats) that were created or obtained by a City agency and are, at the time the request is filed, in the department's possession and control.

How soon must a city agency respond to my request?

• A City agency receiving a request for documents under the Public Records Act has ten (10) days in which to respond to the request.
• In unusual circumstances, the 10-day time limit may be extended by up to 14 days by written notice to the requestor, setting forth the reason for the time extension as required by the Act.

How much will I be charged for my request?

• Fees for copies are ten cents per page, unless the requested document has an established statutory fee. The cost of CDs and audio tapes will vary depending on the specific request.

When may public records be inspected?

• Public records are open to inspection during regular City Hall business hours. To make an appointment with the City Clerk, please call (415) 289-4165.
• The office of the City Clerk is located at 420 Litho Street, Sausalito, CA, 94965.