Public Records Request

The City of Methuen is committed to providing public records access in compliance with Massachusetts Public Records Law. Please use the instructions below to request public records.

Understanding the Massachusetts Public Records Law

Massachusetts Public Records Law (Chapter 66, Section 10 of the Massachusetts General Laws) applies to records made or received by a Massachusetts agency or municipality. Certain records fall under exemptions and will not be available. For a list of exemptions, refer to Chapter 4, Section 7(26).

Submitting a Public Records Request

Records requests can be made verbally, in-person, or in writing. A copy of the written request is necessary to file an appeal with the Supervisor of Records.

Sample request format:

[Date request mailed]

Anne Drouin RAO
41 Pleasant Street
Searles Building, Room 112
Methuen, MA 01844

Re: Massachusetts Public Records Request

Dear _______:

I am requesting a copy of the following records: [Detailed description of the information you are seeking].

I understand that there may be reasonable costs for copies and personnel time.

You are required to provide a written response within 10 business days. If you cannot comply, please provide an explanation in writing.

Sincerely,

Your Name
Contact Information (address, email, telephone)

Appealing a Denial of Access to Public Records

If you do not receive a satisfactory response, you may appeal to the Supervisor of Records or seek judicial review. More details on appeals can be found on the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website.

Additional Information

For more information about making a request or filing an appeal, refer to the Guide to the Massachusetts Public Records Law (PDF).