Do I need to give a reason to request police records in New York?

Most public records laws, including the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90), do not require you to explain why you want most records. Some categories, such as certain criminal justice or investigative records, can involve more agency discretion, so a short description of what you need can help. CopFax is not a law firm; check the statute for details.

How long does a New York agency have to respond?

Under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90), the response timeline is: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. If you hear nothing by then, follow up in writing and keep a copy.

What does a public records request cost in New York?

Agencies may charge copying, media, or labor fees allowed by the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). Requesting electronic copies usually keeps costs down, and the CopFax letter asks the agency for a fee estimate before costs exceed $25.

Are New York police disciplinary records public?

Yes. Since the repeal of Civil Rights Law Section 50-a on June 12, 2020, police disciplinary records are available under FOIL, with certain personal information redacted.

How long does a New York agency have to respond to a FOIL request?

It must acknowledge the request within five business days and give an approximate date for a decision.

What can I do if a New York police department denies my FOIL request?

File a written appeal with the agency. If that is denied, you can go to court under Article 78.

New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)

Police Records Request Letter Generator for New York

In New York, anyone can ask a police department for copies of its records under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). The law sets this response timeline: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. Use the generator below to write a clear request that cites the law, asks for electronic copies, and asks for a fee estimate first.

Last reviewed September 30, 2026. Statute: Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90.

Write your New York request

New York police department

Search for the department to start your letter. CopFax is not a law firm and this is not legal advice.

How to send your request

Step 1
Pick the records
Check the kinds of records you want, such as body camera video, incident reports, or use of force reports.
Step 2
Fill in the details
Add the date, location, officer name or badge number, and case number if you have them, plus your name and contact.
Step 3
Send it to the records custodian
Copy, print, or email the letter to the department's records custodian or public records portal, and keep a dated copy.
Step 4
Follow up after the deadline
If you have no response by the legal deadline, follow up in writing, and ask for the specific exemption for anything withheld.

Request specific records in New York

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to give a reason to request police records in New York?: Most public records laws, including the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90), do not require you to explain why you want most records. Some categories, such as certain criminal justice or investigative records, can involve more agency discretion, so a short description of what you need can help. CopFax is not a law firm; check the statute for details.
How long does a New York agency have to respond?: Under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90), the response timeline is: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. If you hear nothing by then, follow up in writing and keep a copy.
What does a public records request cost in New York?: Agencies may charge copying, media, or labor fees allowed by the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). Requesting electronic copies usually keeps costs down, and the CopFax letter asks the agency for a fee estimate before costs exceed $25.
What if a New York police department denies my request?: Ask the agency to cite the specific legal exemption for each record withheld and to release any parts that are not exempt. The New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90) may provide an appeal or court review; check the statute and consider talking to a lawyer or a press freedom group.
Are New York police disciplinary records public?: Yes. Since the repeal of Civil Rights Law Section 50-a on June 12, 2020, police disciplinary records are available under FOIL, with certain personal information redacted.
How long does a New York agency have to respond to a FOIL request?: It must acknowledge the request within five business days and give an approximate date for a decision.
What can I do if a New York police department denies my FOIL request?: File a written appeal with the agency. If that is denied, you can go to court under Article 78.

Public records law in New York Police departments and incidents in New York