Police Public Records Request

The Idaho Public Records Law gives you the right to request any document or electronic record created and maintained by the Boise Police Department, but there are restrictions on what information can be released.

In order to process your request for public records as efficiently as possible, all requests to examine or copy public records MUST BE MADE IN WRITING. Please help us in this process by reading the information below and filling out the form completely.

Pursuant to Idaho State Code 9-338(8) all requests made are subject to a copy and / or processing fee which may be required prior to receipt of record(s).

Law enforcement records are different than other public records:

  • Any open, ongoing investigation must be completed and adjudicated in the court system before any records about the incident can be released.
  • Personal identifying information must be protected per state and federal regulations.
  • Release of information must not jeopardize a person’s right to a fair trial.

Idaho law restricts release of some types of information. For example, records about matters that are under investigation or that show law enforcement investigative techniques cannot be disclosed.

For more details, check Idaho Code.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request public records?

You may complete an online request below or come into City Hall West at 333 N. Mark Stall Place in Boise and fill out a written request form. Be very specific about the information you are requesting. If it is a record on an individual, complete names are required with dates of birth to ensure that the right record is provided. Idaho law allows 3 to 10 business days for the Boise Police Department to respond to your request. There may be a charge for this service.

Will I be charged for copies of the information I request?

The Boise Police Department has a fee schedule for larger records requests. You will be notified what cost, if any, you would be required to pay. For more details, see Idaho Statute 74-102.

Are there any restrictions on how I can use the information I receive?

Generally, usage for any type of mailing, electronic or telephone list is against the law. For more details, see Idaho Statute 74-120.

How long will it take to get the records I request?

It usually takes 3 – 10 business days from the receipt of your request to receive your records. For more details, see Idaho Statute 74-103.

How will I know if my request has been granted or denied?

If your public information request is approved, the requested documents will be released to you by way of the delivery method specified on your request. If your request is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reason for the denial. For more details, see Idaho Statute 74-103.

Can I protest (appeal) if my request is denied?

Yes. A petition must be filed within 180 days of the date that the denial letter is mailed. For more details, see Idaho Statute 74-115.

How do I request a background check on someone?

The Boise Police Department does not provide background checks for the public.

If you want to check the criminal record of a new employee or someone who may be in contact with children or if you have concerns about a person’s past, you can request a statewide background check. These are done through the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). BCI’s address and phone number are as follows.

700 S. Stratford Dr, Meridian, ID 83642
(208) 884-7130

If you have other questions or need additional information, you can contact us at 208-570-6000 or email BPD-Requests@cityofboise.org

Police Records Request Form

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