Requesting general information
Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA) give you the right to request access to government-held information, including information about you.
You can request access to general information held by provincial and municipal government institutions by making a freedom of information request.
How do I make a freedom of information request?
There are three easy steps:
- Find the institution most likely to have the information you are looking for
- Complete a request form or write a letter requesting the information
- Forward your request to the Freedom of Information Co-ordinator, along with the $5.00 application fee
You should receive a response within 30 days.
Are there any fees in addition to the request fee?
Yes. For access to general information, there are fees for photocopying, shipping, manually searching records or preparing them for disclosure. Other fees may be required by an institution in responding to your request.
What if access is denied?
If a public institution denies you access to information that you requested under FIPPA or MFIPPA, it must give you written notice of its decision and inform you of your right to file an appeal with our office.
If you have more questions, please contact us.