If you would like to access any records held by the Town of Whitby, we suggest you first contact the department that holds the records. We try to provide as much information as possible without the need for a formal Freedom of Information (FOI) request; however, if your request contains personal information or third-party information, a FOI request may be needed.

We rely on the Routine Disclosure of Records procedure to determine which records may be released outside the FOI process. Contact us for an accessible version of the procedure for more information. You can also learn more about the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, including its principles on disclosure, access and protecting personal privacy.

Submitting an FOI request

Please complete a Freedom of Information Request Form, to be submitted along with your request and standard $5.00 application fee. Learn more about how to make an FOI request in Ontario, associated fees, types of records, appeals and more.

After submission

We will respond to your request within 30 calendar days upon receipt of the completed FOI Request form and fee. In our response, we will provide a decision on access to the requested records.

If we cannot complete the request within 30 days where it negatively affects the regular operations of the Town or where other individuals or third-parties may be affected by the possible release of information, we will advise you of an extension and the anticipated date of a decision.

Additional fees

Beyond the standard fee, there may be more fees to your request depending on the nature. These include tasks like searching for records, preparation time, and photocopying. Any additional fees need to be paid before you'll receive the requested records.