SERVICE
Make a public records complaint against a San Francisco agency
If you think the actions of a public body have not been clear or open, the Sunshine task force will review your case.
What to know
How to make a complaint
If you have been denied access to public records or meetings, let us know:
- Online
- In person
- By email or postal mail
- By fax
After you file a complaint
We'll review your complaint. If the matter is within our control to decide on, we'll schedule a hearing.
What to do
Use our online form
We'll ask for information about the issue.
You will have the option to stay anonymous.
Drop off your complaint
1. Print and fill out the form:
2. Bring the completed form to:
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Room 244
San Francisco, CA 94102
Get directions
Send complaint by email
1. Fill out the form:
2. Save and email your completed form to:
Send complaint by postal mail
1. Fill out the form:
2. Mail form to:
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Room 244
San Francisco, CA 94102
Get directions
Supporting information
Special cases
Know who the law applies to
The Sunshine Ordinance is meant to make sure the public have easier access to public records and meetings.
Who it applies to
Most San Francisco agencies, boards, and commissions have to follow this law. This is true if they were created by City charter or by an ordinance or resolution passed by the Board of Supervisors.
Who it doesn't apply to
Although the Sunshine Ordinance does not apply to:
- San Francisco Health Authority
- San Francisco Housing Authority
- San Francisco Redevelopment Agency
- San Francisco Transportation Authority
- Community College District
- San Francisco School District.
These groups still have to follow certain transparency laws. They are subject to the California Public Records Act and the state's open meeting law, known as the Brown Act.
What happens next?
We will review your complaint.
If the matter is within our control, we will schedule a hearing with the full task force.
Get help
Partner agencies
What to know
How to make a complaint
If you have been denied access to public records or meetings, let us know:
- Online
- In person
- By email or postal mail
- By fax
After you file a complaint
We'll review your complaint. If the matter is within our control to decide on, we'll schedule a hearing.
What to do
Use our online form
We'll ask for information about the issue.
You will have the option to stay anonymous.
Drop off your complaint
1. Print and fill out the form:
2. Bring the completed form to:
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Room 244
San Francisco, CA 94102
Get directions
Send complaint by email
1. Fill out the form:
2. Save and email your completed form to:
Send complaint by postal mail
1. Fill out the form:
2. Mail form to:
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Room 244
San Francisco, CA 94102
Get directions
Supporting information
Special cases
Know who the law applies to
The Sunshine Ordinance is meant to make sure the public have easier access to public records and meetings.
Who it applies to
Most San Francisco agencies, boards, and commissions have to follow this law. This is true if they were created by City charter or by an ordinance or resolution passed by the Board of Supervisors.
Who it doesn't apply to
Although the Sunshine Ordinance does not apply to:
- San Francisco Health Authority
- San Francisco Housing Authority
- San Francisco Redevelopment Agency
- San Francisco Transportation Authority
- Community College District
- San Francisco School District.
These groups still have to follow certain transparency laws. They are subject to the California Public Records Act and the state's open meeting law, known as the Brown Act.
What happens next?
We will review your complaint.
If the matter is within our control, we will schedule a hearing with the full task force.