Please note that in 2021, the state Legislature passed AB 473, which reorganized and recodified the California Public Records Act. The Act previously began at Government Code section 6250, but effective January 1, 2023, now begins at Government Code section 7290.000. This guide has been updated to reflect the new code sections, but case law predating 2023 will refer to the old code sections. The California Law Revision Commission created a table to help translate the old code sections to the new ones.
Welcome to the Guide for Requesting Government Records
Here you will find information on the process for requesting government records, and related resources that are available at San Diego Law Library both in print and in electronic format. You will also find links to online information regarding access to government records.
Included in this guide is information about the California Public Records Act (applicable to state and local government agencies in California) and the Freedom of Information Act (applicable to federal agencies).
This guide does not cover the use of subpoenas to obtain government documents. The use of a subpoena to obtain records is limited to situations where you are already involved in a court case. For more information about using subpoenas see this information from the California Courts website.
This is a research guide only, it is not intended to be legal advice. You are strongly encouraged to read the referenced code sections and to consult the additional resources listed in this guide to determine the best approach for requesting and obtaining government documents in your particular situation.
The San Diego Law Library is San Diego's access point to legal information, resources, and referrals to help you. Click here for hours and partner locations or contact us at refdesk@sdlawlibrary.org or 619-531-3900.
Was this research guide helpful? Please consider giving a tax-deductible donation so we can continue to provide access to legal information.
Thank you for your support!
