Request a Public Record

NCGS § 132-1 defines public records, in relevant part, as "all documents, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received in connection with the transaction of public business” All records maintained by the City of Charlotte are available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. NCGS § 132-1 does not require the city to create or compile a record that does not currently exist in response to a request.

To submit a request online visit the City of Charlotte Public Records Requests Portal. Please be as specific as possible. Make note of any date ranges, keywords, individuals, etc. The more direct a request is, the more efficiently the city can identify the responsive records.

Requesters can submit an anonymous request and do not have to provide a name. However, requesters should try to include at least one method of contact (email, phone, address) in the event the city has questions or need clarification regarding the request. If no contact information is included, responsive records will be posted to the “Archive” and requesters will have to locate the records. Please be advised that information provided in a public records request is subject to North Carolina public records laws and can be disclosed to any person making a public records request.

The City of Charlotte is committed to an open and transparent government. As a rule, we respond to all requests for information as quickly as possible and strive to communicate a realistic time frame. It may not always be possible to fill requests right away if the requests span agencies and/or if they need to be reviewed to see if they contain confidential or restricted information.

After submitting a request, you should have received a confirmation email that includes your request number and security key. Use the "Track Status" feature on the public portal to check the status and view any released records in response to your request.

You can respond to any email we have sent you through the JustFOIA system, email our general email at PublicRecordsRequest@charlottenc.gov, or call 704-336-2248.

If you created an account and forgot your password, please perform the forgot password option on the public portal sign-in page. You will receive an email from JustFOIA prompting you to change your password.

To view previously received requests and release records, click the “Search Archive” button and search. You can utilize the search bar for specific keywords or just search all requests.