Public Records

As a public agency, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea adheres to the California Public Records Act (CPRA) which requires that governmental records shall be disclosed to the public, upon request, unless there is a specific reason not to do so.

Public Records Act (PRA) Requests

The City has a new online PRA request portal called NextRequest. Through NextRequest you can submit a PRA request online, search for published public records and documents, track your request,and communicate with City staff.

• Submit a Public Records Act Request online HERE.

How to get a copy of a Police Report

To obtain a copy of a Police Report, contact the Carmel Police Department Records Division directly at 831-624-6403 or email PoliceRecords@ci.carmel.ca.us, to determine if a report can be released to you, or for information about the status of your report.

Please note:

• Police reports may only be released to authorized parties and according to State law; you must be a named involved party to the case (not merely a witness).
• Reports involving certain types of crime (i.e.; juvenile cases and some sex-related crimes) cannot be released to anyone except district attorneys or law enforcement agencies.
• Any persons named as a suspect or arrested/cited party may not get copies of reports from the police department.
• Anyone named as a suspect, arrested/cited party should call the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office at 831-755-5070 for procedures to obtain a copy of their report.

Review Property Boundaries and Information

The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea has digitized and provides electronic permit history for parcels within its jurisdiction. These plans and permit information are publicly available for homeowners or residents interested in Carmel’s history.  Click HERE to view.

Other Records

Some commonly requested records may be obtained through the County of Monterey, such as vital records, birth certificates, marriage licenses, court records, and property deeds. Use the links below to find information on how to obtain County records

• Court Records (Divorce decrees, etc.) -visit the Monterey County Superior Court Public Portal.
• Real Estate Records (Deeds, Leins, Ownership, etc) -visit the Monterey County Assessor’s Office.
• Vital Records (Birth or Death Certificates, Marriage Licenses) - visit the Monterey County Clerk Recorder’s Office.