Open Data & Ordinance Access - San Bernardino

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

San Bernardino, California provides developer access to city datasets, APIs, and municipal ordinance references to build apps, analyze operations, and comply with local rules. This guide explains where to find official datasets, how to use available APIs, when to file a public records request, and which departments enforce ordinance compliance. For each topic it cites the city's official open data listing, the consolidated municipal code, and Code Enforcement contact pages so you can act on official sources.[1][2][3]

Check dataset license and update date before automated use.

Where to find city open data and APIs

Developers should start at the city open data portal to browse datasets and API endpoints, then confirm terms of use and update cadence on the dataset page. If a dataset is not published, use the public records process described by the City Clerk or request data from the responsible department.

  • Locate datasets and API docs on the city open data portal and catalog.
  • Review dataset metadata: update frequency, schema, and license fields.
  • Note any listed fees for custom extracts or special processing.

Access rules, licensing, and terms

Open data portals often include a terms-of-use or licensing statement governing reuse. Confirm whether the city requires attribution, limits redistribution, or imposes rate limits on API calls. If terms are unclear, contact the dataset owner listed on the portal or file a records request for clarifying documentation.[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Municipal code and departmental rules govern misuse of city resources, unauthorized alteration of official records, and interference with city systems. Specific monetary fines, escalation schemes, and non-monetary sanctions are set by ordinance or administrative regulation; where the municipal code or enforcement page does not list numeric fines for a specific data misuse, that amount is not specified on the cited page and you should contact Code Enforcement or the City Attorney for the applicable penalty schedule.[2][3]

Contact Code Enforcement for enforcement procedures and appeal timelines.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page for data misuse; consult municipal code and enforcing department.[2]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited page for data/API misuse; check ordinance sections cited by the municipal code.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative orders, injunctive relief, suspension of access, or referral to court are possible under city rules; exact remedies are not fully listed on the cited pages.[2]
  • Enforcer & complaints: Community Development - Code Enforcement accepts complaints and coordinates enforcement actions; use the official department contact page to report violations.[3]
  • Appeals & review: appeal routes and time limits depend on the specific ordinance or administrative order; if the cited ordinance does not specify, it is not specified on the cited page.[2]

Applications & Forms

The common developer-facing forms include public records requests and department-specific data request forms. If a published form or fee is required it will appear on the City Clerk or department page; if no form is published for a special data extract that requirement is not specified on the cited page and you should contact the City Clerk or the dataset owner for instructions.[3]

Many standard public records requests are processed via a City Clerk submission form.

How to access unpublished data or make special requests

  • Identify dataset owner and contact details on the portal or municipal department pages.
  • If not published, submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk with dataset details.
  • Track statutory response deadlines for records requests and ask for fee estimates if processing is extensive.

FAQ

Where is the official city open data portal?
The city open data portal is listed on the city website and contains cataloged datasets and API endpoints.[1]
Do I need permission to use city APIs in an app?
Check the dataset's terms of use and any API key requirements on the portal; if not clear, contact the dataset owner or the City Clerk.[1]
How do I request data not published online?
Submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk with a clear description of the records sought and preferred format.

How-To

  1. Browse the city open data portal to find the dataset and confirm the API endpoint or download link.
  2. Review the dataset metadata and terms of use; note update cadence and any attribution requirements.
  3. If the dataset is not published or you need a custom extract, submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk with specifics and preferred format.
  4. Follow API best practices: respect rate limits, cache responsibly, and include attribution where required.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify dataset license and owner before reuse.
  • Use the Public Records Request process when data is not available online.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of San Bernardino open data portal
  2. [2] San Bernardino Municipal Code - consolidated ordinances
  3. [3] Community Development - Code Enforcement contact page

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