New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)
How to Request 911 Calls in New York
You can ask a New York police department for 911 call audio and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) logs under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). Response timeline: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. Be as specific as you can about the date, place, and people involved, and ask for electronic copies.
Last reviewed September 30, 2026. Statute: Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90.
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Frequently asked questions
- Can I get 911 calls from a New York police department?
- You can request 911 call audio and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) logs under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). Some records may be withheld or redacted under exemptions in the law, for example for open investigations or privacy.
- What should I include in a request for 911 calls?
- Name the department, describe the records as precisely as you can (date, time, location, officer name or badge number, case number), ask for electronic copies, and ask for a fee estimate first.
- How long will it take?
- The response timeline under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90) is: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. Large video requests can take longer if the agency needs to review or redact footage.