Public Records Act

California Public Records Act

The California Public Records Act (California Government Code Sections 7920 et. seq.), commonly referred to as the “PRA,” provides members of the public access to records and information maintained by government agencies, such as the City of Newark. The purpose of the PRA is to ensure that government records are disclosed to the public upon request unless there is a legal basis for withholding those records.

Requesting Records

Any member of the public may request to review any public record. Requests for records may be made in writing or verbally.  A written request is not required; however, a written request streamlines the response process and allows City staff to accurately identify the public records that you seek. A clear description of the records that you seek including dates, subjects, and titles may help City staff quickly respond to your request. While not required, providing your name, telephone number, and/or an email address may enable City staff to better reach you to clarify your request. Individuals may submit requests for records via email to city.clerk@newark.org, via telephone at 510-578-4266, or in person at the David W. Smith City Hall located at 37101 Newark Boulevard.

For access to Police Department Records such as Police Reports, please contact the Police Department Records Division.  Information may be found on the Police Department page. Police Department Records Link

City’s Obligation to Respond

Unless qualifying circumstances exist, the City is obligated to provide a response to all requests for records within 10 calendar days following receipt of the request.  If the request was received after business hours, on a weekend, or holiday, the 10-day response period will begin on the next business day. If the tenth day falls on a weekend or City holiday, the next business day is considered the deadline for responding to the request.

If additional time is needed to provide the requested records and legally allowed, the City may extend the response period for up to 14 additional calendar days. If the City extends the response period, you will be notified within the initial 10-day period.

The City is under no obligation to create a record that does not exist at the time the request is submitted.

Reviewing Records

Records are generally made available for review at David W. Smith City Hall during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday and alternating Fridays, from 8:00 AM to 2 PM. If a member of the public requests copies of records, the City may charge a copying fee per the City’s Master Fee Schedule.  The current Master Fee Schedule may be found on the City website at Master Fee Schedule Link