detroit public records: a practical guide for finding and requesting information

What they are

Detroit public records include city emails, budgets, contracts, code enforcement files, police reports, property deeds, and many datasets. Most are accessible under Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act, with limited exemptions for privacy, security, and ongoing investigations.

Where to look

• City of Detroit FOIA portal for departments, including Buildings, Planning, and Police.
• Wayne County Clerk/Recorder for deeds, liens, and civil filings; property records are often searchable by address or parcel.
• 36th District Court for case lookups and dockets.
• Detroit Open Data Portal for inspections, permits, and GIS layers.
• State of Michigan for vital records (birth, death, marriage) via MDHHS.

Requesting efficiently

Be specific about subject, date range, and formats; ask for electronic delivery to reduce fees. Note that agencies usually respond within five business days, with a possible ten-day extension. If fees seem high, request a detailed cost breakdown or narrow the scope. You can appeal denials in writing to the head of the public body or seek judicial review.

Pro tip: Before filing, search existing agendas, contracts, and datasets-you may find what you need immediately and at no cost.