Your Government

It's Your Government: Public Records

What Can I Get?

Massachusetts Public Record Law defines “public records” as “all documentary materials or data, regardless of physical form or characteristics . . . . [including] all photographs, papers and electronic storage media including electronic mail” either made or received. There are some exceptions, including those for public safety, medical records, and test answers (sorry, kids!). For a more complete list of exemptions, see the Secretary of State's Guide to the Massachusetts Public Records Law.

How Can I Get It?

Your first stop should be to go online and see if the information is already available. You'll find a lot posted on the town's website, including meeting minutes and agendas. Some committees or departments have their own websites. For example, the Schools and East Boston Camp Master Plan Committee maintain their own websites.

If It's Not on the Website

If the information is not already available on the website, your next step should be to request the information from the custodian of records. For many town departments, the Town Clerk's office is a good place to start. You can call or stop in to request information, however it is often helpful to have a written record of your request. More info on that later.

Another useful way to request information is to use the Town's comment submission form. Your request will be routed to the appropriate person. The response time is good, although it does feel a bit like sending something into a black hole as there is no confirmation of what you sent. However, when you receive a response, your inquiry will likely be appended to the end of their message.

What To Expect

You should receive a response to your request within 10 days. It may not be fulfilled by that time, but you should know whether or not your request has been denied. You may be charged a nominal fee to cover costs.

For More Information

Links to additional resources on the Public Records Law can be found on our Resources page.