File a Public Records Request - San Bernardino

Technology and Data California 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

In San Bernardino, California, individuals and organizations can request city records under the California Public Records Act. This guide explains where to submit an online request, what to expect from the city, statutory timelines, common fees, and practical steps to get records from departments such as the City Clerk or Police Records unit. Use the official municipal code and state law links below to confirm deadlines and any local fee schedules before filing. San Bernardino Municipal Code[1] and the California Public Records Act provide the legal framework for requests. Gov. Code §6253[2]

How to prepare and submit an online request

Before you submit, identify the records you want clearly (date ranges, document types, departments). Specify electronic delivery if you prefer email or PDF. Many city departments accept requests by an online form, email, mail, or in person; check the department contact for preferred submission methods and any published request form.

  • Be specific: list keywords, date ranges, and department names.
  • Request preferred format: PDF, CSV, or native files when available.
  • Ask for a fee estimate before production if the request appears large.
  • Provide a contact email and daytime phone for questions or clarification.
Include exact date ranges and department names to speed processing.

What the law requires and typical timeline

Under the California Public Records Act, an agency must determine whether it will comply with a request and notify the requester within 10 calendar days of receipt, subject to statutory exceptions and extensions; see Gov. Code §6253 for exact language and conditions. Gov. Code §6253[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

San Bernardino does not publish monetary fines or penalties for making a PRA request on the municipal code page; fee and penalty details are not specified on the cited municipal-code page. San Bernardino Municipal Code[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Civil remedies: courts may order disclosure or impose remedies under state law; specific court remedies are governed by the California Public Records Act (see state statute). Gov. Code §6253[2]
  • Enforcer: enforcement is through civil court actions; administrative complaint pathways are not specified on the cited municipal page.
  • Appeals/review: if a request is denied, requesters may seek judicial review; specific time limits for filing suit are governed by state law and not specified on the cited city page.
  • Defenses/discretion: exemptions in the California Public Records Act allow agencies to withhold records when statutory exemptions apply.
If the city denies a request, preserve all correspondence and deadlines for any court action.

Applications & Forms

Some San Bernardino departments use a public records request form or an online request portal; the municipal code page does not list a single universal form and department-specific forms or submission instructions are published by the relevant department. Check the City Clerk or specific department pages for a downloadable form or online portal. San Bernardino Municipal Code[1]

Action steps: how to get records

  • Search the municipal code and department pages for existing published records before requesting.
  • Contact the City Clerk to confirm the preferred submission method and request form.
  • Submit a clear written request with contact information and format preference.
  • Request a fee estimate if the request may involve substantial staff time or copying costs.

FAQ

Can anyone file a public records request with San Bernardino?
Yes. Under the California Public Records Act, members of the public may request access to records; departments may require a written request and contact details.
How long will the city take to respond?
State law requires a determination within 10 calendar days in most cases; production time depends on the request scope and any exemptions claimed by the city.[2]
Will I be charged for copies or staff time?
Agencies may charge for direct costs of duplication and, in some cases, staff time; the municipal code page does not provide a single fee schedule and fees should be confirmed with the department handling the request.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify the records you need, including dates, departments, and file types.
  2. Check San Bernardino published records and municipal code to avoid duplicate requests.
  3. Submit a written request to the appropriate department (City Clerk for general city records) via the department's online form or email.
  4. Ask for a fee estimate and request electronic delivery when available.
  5. If denied, request a written explanation citing the exemption and preserve communications for appeal.

Key Takeaways

  • Be specific in your request to reduce processing time.
  • Expect an initial agency determination within 10 days under state law.
  • Contact the City Clerk for forms, submission instructions, and fee estimates.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] San Bernardino Municipal Code - Municode
  2. [2] California Government Code §6253 (Public Records Act)

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