Requesting Archival Records
You can view the full Access city archives page for general information about visiting the reading room. However, if you need specific documents, photographs, or maps that are not immediately available online, you must submit a formal request. This process ensures that staff can locate the correct materials and prepare them for your review.
How to Submit a Request
Send your request by email to [email protected]. Please include the following details in your message:
- Reference numbers: If you know the specific file or box number, include it. If not, provide as much detail as possible about the content.
- Date range: Specify the years you are interested in. The archives hold records dating back to the early 1900s.
- Subject matter: Describe the topic, such as zoning changes, building permits, or historical photographs of a specific street.
- Your contact information: Include your name, mailing address, and phone number so staff can reach you if they need clarification.
Processing Time and Fees
Staff will review your request and respond within five business days. If the material is available, they will confirm when it can be viewed or if it can be mailed to you. There is no charge for viewing records in the reading room. However, if you require certified copies or high-resolution digital scans, a fee may apply. You will receive an invoice before any copies are produced.
Privacy and Restrictions
Some records may be restricted due to privacy laws or Heritage plaque program confidentiality requirements. Personal information about current residents or sensitive financial data is protected. If your request involves restricted material, staff will explain why it cannot be released and may suggest alternative public sources.
Related Resources
For more information on the city's past, explore the Our history section. If you have family photos or documents you would like to preserve for future generations, consider the Donate to the archives program. You can also search the Heritage register search to see if a property in your neighbourhood has been designated.