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What kind of information can I request?
You have the right to request any record in the custody or control of Halifax Regional Municipality. The Municipality does not process information requests for the following bodies:
- Halifax Regional Police: (902) 490-5294
- Halifax Regional Water Commission: (902) 490-6207
How do I make a request?
You should always start by making an informal request. To do this, simply contact the Business Unit you think might have the information you are looking for. If you are told that the information is not routinely available, then you should proceed to file a FOIPOP request.
Is there a fee to process my request?
There is a $5 application fee for access to general records. There is no charge for applications for personal information or correction of personal information.
Are there additional fees charged after the initial application fee?
The Municipality has the authority to charge for time for preparing the information, copying of the information and sending of the records. If a charge is to be levied, you will be provided with a fee estimate prior to the request being processed.
Will I be charged if I am denied access?
Yes. The application fee will not be refunded even if you are denied full or partial access to the records.
How long does a request take?
Under the legislation, the Municipality is required to respond to your request within 30 days. If additional time is required (because your request was not detailed enough, you requested so much information or a third party has to be consulted), an extension can be given but the Municipality is required to advise the applicant when a response can be expected.
What is personal information?
Personal information is recorded information on an identifiable individual including:
- the individual's name, address or telephone number;
- the individual's race, national or ethnic origin, colour, or religious or political beliefs or associations;
- the individual's age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status or family status;
- an identifying number, symbol or other particular assigned to the individual;
- the individual's fingerprints, blood type or inheritable characteristics;
- information about the individual's health-care history, including a physical or mental disability;
- information about the individual's educational, financial, criminal or employment history;
- anyone else's opinions about the individual; and
- the individual's personal views or opinions, except if they are about someone else.
Is my personal information protected?
The legislation protects personal privacy by restricting the collection, use and disclosure of personal information.
What if I am denied information?
The Municipality must provide you with reasons if you are denied access to information. If you are not satisfied with these reasons, you may request a review. A review must be requested within 60 days of notification.
What are the acceptable reasons to request a review?
A review can be requested if:
- your request for access is either fully or partially denied;
- you are told the records do not exist and you do not agree;
- you do not agree with estimate of fees;
- you did not receive a response to your application;
- you do not agree with the extension of the 30-day response period;
- your request to correct personal information has been denied; or
- you are a third party to an application and you do not agree with the decision of the Municipality to release your personal information or information that you may have an interest in.
Who is the Review Officer?
The Review Officer is an independent ombudsman appointed by the Governor in Council. The Review Officer's role is to review decisions of public bodies when people are not satisfied with the response they have received from the public bodies.
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