Austin Police Department open records request starts with the City of Austin’s official Public Records Center. You can submit your request online, by email, or in person. The Texas Public Information Act gives every person the right to view government records unless a specific law says otherwise. You do not need to explain why you want the records. The city must respond quickly and clearly. This page explains every step, from filling out forms to receiving documents, with real deadlines, contact details, and legal protections.
How to Submit an Austin Police Department Open Records Request
Start by going to the City of Austin’s Public Records Center website. Click “Create Account” if you are new, or log in if you already have one. Fill out the form with your full name, mailing address, and a clear description of the records you want. Include any case numbers, incident dates, or names involved. Choose how you want to receive the records: by email, mail, or pick up in person. After you submit, you will get a confirmation email with a tracking number. Use this number to check the status online at any time.
If you prefer email, send your request to [email protected]. Make sure your email includes your full name, address, and a detailed description of the records. The city will reply with a tracking number within two business days. You can also call 3-1-1 at 512-974-3000 for help with questions or to confirm your request was received.
Legal Timeline: How Fast Must APD Respond?
Under Texas Government Code §552.301(c), the Austin Police Department must acknowledge your request within two business days. This means they must send you a message saying they got it. Within ten business days, they must either send you the records or explain in writing why they cannot. Reasons for delay include ongoing investigations, privacy concerns, or large amounts of data.
If your request is complex, the city may ask for more time. They must tell you in writing and give a new deadline. You have the right to appeal if they deny your request or take too long. The Texas Attorney General handles appeals and can order the release of records.
What Records Can You Get from APD?
You can request many types of police records. These include incident reports, accident reports, arrest logs, and use-of-force summaries. Most non-confidential reports are public. Some records may be redacted to protect private information like Social Security numbers, medical details, or juvenile names.
You cannot get records that are part of an active investigation, ongoing court case, or undercover operation. Also, personal data about victims or witnesses may be hidden to protect safety. If only part of a record is exempt, the rest must still be released.
Online Portal vs. Email: Which Is Better?
The online Public Records Center is the fastest and most reliable way to submit a request. It gives you a tracking number, status updates, and secure document downloads. You can also attach files and choose delivery options. Creating an account lets you see all your past requests in one place.
Email works too, but it lacks real-time tracking. You must wait for a reply to get your request ID. Some users prefer email for simple requests, like a single report. But for large or legal requests, the portal is better because it keeps everything organized.
How to Get a Police Report from APD
Most police reports are available through the APD Incident Report Database. Go to APD Reports and enter the report number, incident date, and at least one person’s name. You can view or download the report right away if it’s public.
If you need a printed copy, call the Records Sales Unit at 512-974-5499. They are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring a photo ID and pay a small fee. The report will be printed on official APD letterhead. You can pick it up at 715 E 8th Street, Austin, TX 78701.
Fees and Payment Options
The City of Austin charges fees for copying and mailing records. Most basic requests cost less than $10. For example, a single police report is $0.10 per page, with a minimum fee of $1.00. Bulk requests or large files may cost more.
You can pay by cash, check, or credit card. If you use the online portal, payment is made through a secure system. For in-person pickup, pay when you collect the documents. The city will send an invoice if the cost is over $50.
Chief Joseph Chacon and APD Leadership
Chief Joseph Chacon leads the Austin Police Department. He was appointed in October 2021 after serving as Interim Chief. Before that, he was Assistant Chief of the Central Patrol Bureau. Under his leadership, APD has improved transparency, added community meetings, and used data to guide policing.
Chief Chacon supports open records access. He has said that sharing information builds trust between police and the public. The department now publishes more data online and responds faster to requests.
Travis County and State-Level Records
Some records related to Austin police may be held by Travis County or state agencies. For example, court records, jail logs, or budget details are managed by the Sheriff’s Office or District Clerk. Use the Travis County Records Request Portal to find these.
The Texas Department of Public Safety also handles some law enforcement records. You can email them at [email protected] or mail a request to Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773-0140. They must reply within ten business days.
Common Reasons for Denial and How to Appeal
Your request may be denied if the records are part of an active investigation, contain private data, or are not in the city’s possession. The city must explain the reason in writing and cite the law that allows the denial.
If you disagree, you can appeal to the Texas Attorney General. File your appeal within 30 days of the denial. The AG will review the case and decide if the records should be released. This process is free and does not require a lawyer.
Tips for a Successful Request
Be specific. Instead of asking for “all police reports,” say “incident report for a car accident on June 5, 2024, at 12th and Congress.” Include names, dates, and locations. This helps APD find the records faster.
Use the online portal whenever possible. It reduces errors and gives you proof of submission. Keep your tracking number safe. If you don’t hear back in two days, call 3-1-1 to check.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Austin Police Department Main Headquarters
715 E 8th Street
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-974-5000
Open Records Email: [email protected]
Records Sales Unit: 512-974-5499
Open Records Division: 512-974-5407
3-1-1 Information Line: 512-974-3000
Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Public Records Center is online 24/7. For urgent requests, call during business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get police records from APD?
Most requests are completed within ten business days. Simple reports may be ready in 2–3 days. Complex or large requests can take longer, but the city must notify you of any delays.
Can I request records without giving my name?
No. Texas law requires your full name and contact information. This helps the city verify your identity and send you the records. Your personal details are not shared publicly.
Are body camera videos available through open records?
Some body camera footage may be released, but it often depends on the case. If it involves an ongoing investigation or private individuals, parts may be redacted or withheld. Request it through the Public Records Center and explain why you need it.
What if I can’t afford the fees?
You can ask for a fee waiver. Write a letter explaining your situation, such as low income or public interest. The city may reduce or eliminate the cost. This is more likely for journalists, researchers, or nonprofit groups.
Can I get records about myself?
Yes. You have the right to access records that include your name, as long as they are not exempt. For example, you can get your own arrest report or accident report. Bring ID when picking up documents.
What happens if APD ignores my request?
If you don’t get a reply within two business days, call 3-1-1. If they still don’t respond, you can file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General. The AG can investigate and order compliance.
Are 911 calls public records?
Audio recordings of 911 calls may be released, but they often contain sensitive information. The city will review each request and may redact parts to protect privacy. You must request them through the Public Records Center.