Request Public Records

Access

The City of Frederick provides access to its public records in accordance with the Maryland Public Information Act (Annotated Code of Maryland, General Provisions Article, Title 4 of the State Government Article). Under the Public Information Act (PIA), you are entitled to review and obtain copies of available records, subject to certain exceptions.

The PIA does not require the city to provide information not contained in a public record or to create such a record if it does not exist at the time of the request. In accordance with the PIA, the city charges reasonable fees for copying as well as search and preparation of records. Upon written request, the mayor may waive fees under certain circumstances.

Requests

Requests for public information should be submitted to the custodian of the records being sought (i.e., the city employee or department that has physical control of the documents). You may use the city's Public Information Act Request Form. If you do not know which person or department is the custodian of the records you are seeking, please contact Kim Loop at 301-600-1453 or email Kim.  Please note that Police reports and other Police related records are in the physical control of the Frederick City Police Department. You may submit your request to the Frederick City Police using the "Public Information Act Request Form" link above.

The city will respond to requests as soon as possible. The PIA requires a response within 30 days of receipt of the request unless additional time is needed by the city and granted by the applicant.

Learn More

To learn more about the PIA, please see the Maryland Attorney General's Maryland Public Information Act Manual.