Freedom of information request

Learn how to request access to City of Waterloo records that are not already available online.

On this page:

Check if the information is already available

Before making a freedom of information (FOI) request, check if the information is already public.

You may find what you need through:

Council minutes and reports – use our searchable database
Open data site – browse available datasets
City departments – contact the department that manages the information or can provide compliance letters
Environmental searches – contact the Engineering Division at 519-747-8536

If the information is not available online, you can submit an FOI request.

Be as specific as possible about the information you want — this helps us find records quickly.

Download and complete the form – Freedom of Information Request Form (PDF).
Pay the $5 application fee – pay by debit, cash or cheque made payable to the City of Waterloo.
Submit your form and payment in person – to Legislative Services, third floor, City Hall, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

If you need help submitting your request, contact us at 519-747-8704 or foi@waterloo.ca.

Most requests are processed within 30 days. We will contact you if clarification is necessary.

Freedom of Information (FOI) requests are handled under Ontario’s Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).