Municipal Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy Act 

Please note: All current or new freedom of information requests from The City of St. Catharines will be subject to delay. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, some staff are working remotely and may not be in a position to search for the records you are asking for until they are back in the office. Please refer to the IPC website for further information.

As City Hall is currently closed to the public, applications may be placed in the dropbox located at the James St. entrance to City Hall or submitted via mail.

The Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act establishes a process for the public to gain access to records in the care and control of the City. Legal and Clerks Services is the coordinator of the process for access of municipal records.

Informal Access to Records

The City Clerks Office can help determine if a formal request needs to be submitted.

Description of Records or Correction Request

• A request for information, should contain as much detail as possible about the requested records including specific dates or timelines
• Your personal information and that of others, including corrections to your own information.
• Ensure that proper names are used and where necessary provide supporting documentation.
• Deliver the request for information form and fee to Legal and Clerks Services, Third Floor, City Hall or by mail to Legal and Clerks Services - address provided to the left.

Payment and Fees

• A $5 application fee is required. 
• Make your cheque payable to the City of St. Catharines.
• Documents: $7.50 per quarter hour of time used for research and preparation.
• Photocopies are charged at the rate of .20 cents per page.
• Computer programming, if needed to develop and retrieve information is $15 per quarter hour.

Appeal

The Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act allows individuals the right to appeal any decision made by the City relating to access of records or personal information. Appeals are filed with the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC) of Ontario who is an officer of the Ontario legislature and is independent of the government or any institution.