Records FAQs

Visit the Public Records Request webpage, fill in the form at the bottom of the webpage, and select "submit." As an alternative method, complete the Public Records Request Form (PDF) and submit it by mail, email or fax according to the instructions at the bottom of the form.

All requests for public records should be directed to the appropriate department or agency. If you are not sure which department to contact about your request, you may direct it to the District Clerk’s Office. Requests for public records should be in writing and should be as specific as possible. It is important to include the following information in your request, so that we may respond in a timely manner:

• A clear and specific description of the information you are requesting. If possible, identify dates, subjects, titles, or authors of the documents requested.
• An explanation of what the information will be used for (i.e. scholarly purpose, commercial use, personal use). This will help us determine what fees, if any, to charge you for the information.
• If you are requesting a waiver of fees, please state why you believe you are entitled to the waiver.
• Your contact information, including name, address, phone number, and email.

Anyone may initiate a request for public records.

Public Records requests may be used to obtain "agency records," which include a wide variety of documents and other materials (including print, photographic, and electronic formats) that were created or obtained by an agency and are, at the time the request is filed, in the department's possession and control. The Public Records Act excludes certain categories of records from disclosure, including materials related to internal agency rules, proprietary business information, inter- and intra-agency communications that are protected by legal privileges, and personal privacy.

The District, under the Public Records Act, has ten (10) days to respond to the request.

Fees for copies are twenty-five cents per page, unless the requested document has an established statutory fee. The cost of CDs and audio tapes vary depending on the specific request.

Public records are open to inspection during regular office hours, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. every other Friday, excluding District holidays. The office of the District Clerk is located at 290 Paularino Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.