Public Records & Subpoenas
San Francisco citizens have the right to access government documents and proceedings to allow for effective public oversight.
The California Public Records Act and the Brown Act protect the public’s right to access government records and to attend open government meetings. The acts cover all levels of government in the state. However, cities and counties such as San Francisco, have enacted “Sunshine” laws to ensure easier access to public records and strengthen the open meeting laws.
Public Records Requests
You can make a request for public records by emailing the Human Services Agency's Sunshine Ordinance Coordinator at hsasunshine@sfgov.org.
Service fees: Departments may charge 10 cents per page for copying most documents. Additional fees may apply for other services such as a request for certified copies.
More information: See the San Francisco Sunshine Ordinance and Frequently Asked Questions for more about service fees, filing a complaint about a records request, open meetings, and other ordinance provisions.
Service of Subpoenas
Procedures for Subpoenas:
All Subpoenas must be served per the California Evidence Code.
No subpoenas concerning personal matters will be accepted.
In accordance with San Francisco Charter Section 3.100, all Complaints, Summonses, Writs, Subpoenas, and any other pleadings or documents that are required to be personally served, must be hand-delivered to :
San Francisco Mayor’s Office
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 200
San Francisco, California 94102