Request Public Records & Open Data - New Orleans

Technology and Data Louisiana 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 09, 2026 Flag of Louisiana

In New Orleans, Louisiana, residents and researchers can request public records or access the citys open data portal to obtain municipal datasets and documents. This guide explains how to find published datasets, submit a public-records request, what to expect from the City Clerk or records office, and common paths for appeal or follow-up. Use the Open Data Portal for many routine datasets and file a formal public-records request for records not already published.

How to request open data or public records

Start by searching published datasets on the City of New Orleans Open Data Portal and review dataset metadata for download options. If the dataset or specific records are not available, submit a public-records request to the City Clerk or designated records custodian with a clear description of the records you need, date ranges, and preferred format.

Open Data Portal[1] and the City public-records request page explain submission channels and contact points; use them to locate forms and email addresses.[2]

  • Identify records and preferred format (PDF, CSV, shapefile).
  • Note date ranges and any relevant reference numbers or location identifiers.
  • Send the request to the City Clerk or the email/web form listed on the records page.
  • Keep a copy of the request and record the date and delivery method for follow-up.
Be as specific as possible about the records to speed processing.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of New Orleans public records pages and the Open Data Portal set procedures for requests and disclosure. Specific monetary fines for failure to comply are not specified on the cited city pages; refer to state law for statutory remedies when necessary.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing refusal: not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer and review: the City Clerk or records custodian manages requests; judicial review under applicable public-records law is the usual remedy (see official pages).[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: court orders for disclosure or injunctive relief are available through legal action; city pages do not list administrative penalties.

Applications & Forms

The Citys public-records page lists the accepted submission methods and any web forms or email addresses. If no form is required, the city accepts plain written requests specifying the records sought. For many datasets, the Open Data Portal offers direct download or API access.[1]

Some frequently requested datasets are available immediately on the Open Data Portal.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Failure to produce records: outcome not specified on the cited page; may require follow-up or legal action.
  • Over-redaction or excessive withholding: may be challenged in court under public-records law.
  • Untimely response or no acknowledgement: follow the contact instructions on the records page and keep records of communications.

FAQ

How long will the City take to respond to my public-records request?
Response timelines are not specified on the cited city pages; you should receive confirmation of receipt and instructions for any applicable fees or processing steps from the City Clerk or records custodian.[2]
Can I get data in bulk or by API?
The Open Data Portal provides many datasets for download and API access; check dataset pages for formats and usage terms.[1]
What if my request is denied?
If the records are withheld, the city page advises contacting the records office for clarification; judicial remedies under public-records law are an option when disputes cannot be resolved administratively.[2]

How-To

  1. Search the Open Data Portal for published datasets and metadata to see if your records are already available.[1]
  2. If the records are not available, draft a clear written request describing the records, date range, and preferred format.
  3. Submit the request via the City Clerks email or web form listed on the public-records page and retain proof of submission.[2]
  4. Monitor communications from the records office and respond promptly to any clarifying questions to avoid delays.
  5. If denied or withheld, request written reasons and use the listed contact points for review or pursue remedies under public-records law.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the Open Data Portal before filing a records request to save time.
  • Be specific in your request: clear descriptions speed processing.
  • Keep records of submissions and follow city contact instructions for questions or appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of New Orleans Open Data Portal - data.nola.gov
  2. [2] City of New Orleans - Public Records / Records Requests

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