Public Records Act

The purpose of the California Public Records Act (PDF) is to allow for open and transparent government by giving the public access to records in possession of local agencies. The Act requires that public records, with the exception of exempt records, be available for inspection or copy upon request.

How can a records request be submitted?

A Public Records Act Request Form can be submitted online or in person at City Hall, 1050 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014. Requests can also be mailed to City of Del Mar, Attn: Administrative Services Department, 1050 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 or made over the phone by calling the Administrative Services Department 858-375-9558. Requests can also be emailed to the Public Records Office.

How soon must the city respond to my request?

Under the Public Records Act, the City of Del Mar has ten days to notify the requester if records will be disclosed. In some cases the ten-day response period can be extended for up to fourteen additional calendar days. In these cases, the requester will be notified of the extension in writing. Requested documents will be provided as promptly as possible.

How much will I be charged for my request?

There is no fee for inspecting records or receiving electronic copies of records. Fees covering the cost of duplication will be charged for copies.

What is exempt?

Under the California Public Records Act the City of Del Mar may deny a request if the city determines the record sought is exempt from public disclosure.

These exemptions include but are not limited to:

  • Attorney-client work product
  • Copy written architectural and official building plans (unless authorization to copy provided by architect)
  • Initiative, referendum, and recall petitions
  • Personnel, medical or similar files, the disclosure of which would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
  • Preliminary drafts
  • Records pertaining to pending litigation to which the city is a party (until the pending litigation or claim has been settled)
  • Test questions and scoring keys

What information is already available online?

The City is committed to being open and transparent with public resources and information. The Transparency & Open Government page has links to financial reports, public meeting agendas and minutes, and other relevant public information. The Public Map Viewer is available for the public to access maps and zoning and parcel data.

How do I obtain medical records from the Fire Department?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) requires a medical release form be submitted with the patient's signature in order for the Fire Department to release medical records. If you are requesting medical records, please complete a medical release form and submit it to the Administrative Services Department via email along with your Public Records Act request. Any medical release form that meets HIPPA standards can be used. The City also provides a Medical Release Form (PDF).

Useful Information

CA League of Cities Summary (PDF)
Medical Release Form (PDF)
Plan Request Form (PDF)
Public Records Act Request Form
Summary of California Public Records Act (PDF)