Find New York Public Records
Is New York a Public Records State?
Yes, New York is a public records state. This means that government-generated documents are accessible to both residents and non-residents. The New York Freedom of Information Law ensures that the public can access these records. According to this law, public records include any data stored, held, filed, created, or re-created by the state legislature or any state agency.
What is Public Information in New York?
Public information in New York encompasses a variety of documents, including:
- Court records
- Arrest records
- Criminal records and criminal history records
- Public birth records
- Property records
- Public death records
- Public divorce records
These records can exist in several formats, such as physical documents (photographs, maps, graphs, charters, manuals, pamphlets, folders, books, designs, opinions, reports, or letters) or digital formats (video, audio, and electronic communication like email and SMS). Under New York public records law, residents can initiate searches through custodial government agencies to obtain these records. Custodians provide both paid and free search options as per the law. Note that documents generated outside the government but held by a custodian are also subject to the New York Freedom of Information Law.
How Do I Look Up Public Records in New York?
To look up public records in New York, follow these general steps:
Know the Basics of Requesting a Public Record in New York
Identify the specific document you need and provide an accurate description to avoid rejection due to vagueness. For instance, to obtain a criminal court record, provide the record subject's name exactly as it appears in the record. Determine if you need a certified or non-certified copy and confirm that the record is available under state law.
Contact the Custodian Holding the Record
Reach out to the New York department or agency responsible for the record. Determine their method of providing public documents, whether online, offline, or both.
Create and Send a Request
Submit your request online, by mail, or in person. Many custodians provide a downloadable request form. You may also use a generalized Freedom of Information Law request form (see example form for New York City). A written request must include:
- Requester's full name
- Record subject's full name (plus aliases)
- Record subject's date of birth
- Purpose of the request
- Date range when the record was documented
- Case number (for court records)
- Additional information to assist with the search
- Preferred mode of delivery
Submit the form via mail, email, in person, or through the custodian's online platform. If a "Contact Us" page is not available, forward requests to the FOIL officer at the following address:
FOIL Officer
NYC Commission on Human Rights
22 Reade Street
New York, NY 10007.
Fax: (646) 500-7159
Email: foil@cchr.nyc.gov
Review and Submit the Public Record
Some records may incur fees, covering the cost of printing. Payment options include debit or credit cards, cash, money orders, and cashier checks. Expect a written response within five business days.
Utilizing Third-Party Resources for New York Public Records Obtaining
City Records
Third-party websites may provide access to city records. These platforms offer expansive search tools. Users need to provide sufficient information, such as the name of the subject, address, case number, and location of the document. Note that these sites are not government-sponsored, so availability and results may vary.
Public Records
Third-party websites also offer access to public records. These platforms are non-geographically limited, making searches straightforward. Users must provide sufficient information, such as the subject's name and last known location. As these sites are not government-sponsored, availability and accuracy of results can vary.
How To Look Up Public Records in New York for Free?
Requesting to View Public Records
Some custodians, like law enforcement agencies and county clerks, allow the public to view records during business hours. Some agencies provide kiosks or computer terminals for viewing. Copying or downloading may incur charges.
Requesting Online Copies
New York government departments maintain online repositories for public documents. For example, the New York Department of Corrections has an online database for inmates. The New York Sex Offender Registry provides free access to information on level 2 and level 3 sex offenders. The Automated City Register Information System (ACRIS) offers access to property records. Users can search using options like parcel identifier, property owner's name, and document type.
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