PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST

The California State Legislature adopted the Public Records Act in 1975 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 the agency's regular office hours. Pursuant to the passage of Proposition 59 In 2004, the public's right to review records in California was codified as an amendment to the state constitution. The public can inspect any record unless the record is exempted from disclosure under the Act.

How do I make a Public Records request?

All requests for public records should be directed to CCDC's Communications Director and/or Corporation Counsel (danziger@ccdc.com; hhp@lfap.com). Requests for public records should be made in writing and should be specific so we can be as responsive as possible. It is important to include the following information in your request, so that we may respond in a timely manner:

• A statement that you are making a request to inspect and/or copy public documents under the Public Records Act.
• A clear and specific description of the documents you are requesting, and whether you wish to inspect the documents prior to having copies made. If possible, identify dates, subjects, titles, or authors of the documents requested. If you are not certain about the document description, please provide as much information as possible concerning your request so that we can assist in identifying responsive documents.
• If you request copies of public records and are requesting a waiver of the costs associated with making such copies, please state why you believe you are entitled to the waiver.
• Your contact information, including name, address, phone, fax, and email.

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. The Public Records Act excludes certain categories of records from disclosure, including materials related to internal agency rules, proprietary business information, inter- and intra-agency communications that are protected by legal privileges, and personal privacy.

How soon must CCDC respond to my request?

CCDC has ten days in which to respond to a request for documents under the Public Records Act. If the documents are readily available, the response should be received prior to the expiration of the ten day period. In the event a longer time period is necessary to respond, CCDC may respond within the ten day period to advise when the production of the documents will occur. This may occur in situations where the request involves a large number of documents, for example.

How much will I be charged if I request copies?

Fees for copies are twenty-five-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 office hours, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for city holidays. CCDC's corporate offices are located at 401 B Street, Fourth Floor.