Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request is a formal request for any public record. Such requests are made to and handled by the City of Dearborn Law Department and Police Department, depending on the subject matter of the request.

Requirements for Submitting a FOIA Request

FOIA requests must be submitted in writing by mail or via email. FOIA requests concerning Dearborn Police matters can be made through the Dearborn Police Department’s online portal.

Requests must include the following: 

- Your first and last name 

- Your contact information 

- A detailed list of the documents and/or records that you are requesting

Emailed requests may be sent to FOIA@dearborn.gov

Please note that many records may be found on the City of Dearborn’s website without submitting a FOIA request. 

Processing & Responses to FOIA Requests

A response will be returned within 5-15 business days of receiving the initial FOIA request. 

If the response is not ready in 5 business days, a letter extending the response date will be issued. This deadline depends upon the complexity of the request, staffing (vacations, illnesses, etc.), and workload.

Submitting a FOIA Request