Gilbert Public Records
Gilbert public records include police reports, court cases, council documents, and other municipal records from one of Arizona's fastest-growing communities.
Gilbert Quick Facts
Gilbert Public Records Overview
Despite its large population of about 275,000, Gilbert officially remains a "town" rather than a city. This is a matter of local identity rather than legal status. The town sits in Maricopa County in the East Valley. It borders Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek. Gilbert has grown from a small farming community into a major suburban area over the past few decades.
Arizona law gives everyone the right to inspect public records. A.R.S. 39-121 says public records are open to any person at all times during office hours. You do not need to explain why you want the records. The town cannot ask your reason. This law applies to Gilbert town records as well as state and county documents throughout Arizona.
Gilbert offers several online portals for accessing public records. The town has separate systems for general records, police records, and fire records. This organization helps route requests to the right department quickly.
How to Request Gilbert Public Records
Gilbert uses the JustFOIA system for public records requests. The town has separate portals for general records, police records, and fire records. Make sure you use the correct portal for the type of record you need.
For general town records, use the Gilbert Public Records Portal. Create an account to submit and track requests. Describe what you need with as much detail as possible. The system sends email updates as the town works on your request.
For police records specifically, use the Gilbert Police Records Portal. This handles incident reports, accident reports, and other law enforcement documents. Some police records are exempt from disclosure under Arizona law.
For fire records, use the Gilbert Fire Records Portal. This covers fire incident reports and related documents. Contact the Town Clerk at 50 E. Civic Center Dr. Phone: (480) 503-6871. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 7 AM to 6 PM.
Gilbert Council Records
Town council meeting agendas and minutes are available online. These documents show what the town government discusses and decides. Anyone can review them to see how their local government operates.
The Gilbert Council Agendas system provides access to meeting documents. You can search by date or topic to find specific discussions. Meeting materials include staff reports and supporting documents.
The Gilbert Active Contracts database shows town purchasing agreements. You can see what contracts are active and their terms. This is useful for understanding how the town spends public money.
Gilbert Municipal Court Records
Gilbert Municipal Court handles town ordinance violations and misdemeanors. Traffic tickets, minor criminal offenses, and code violations go to this court. Court records may be searchable through the court's online system.
Contact the municipal court directly for case information. The court can tell you what records are available and how to access them. For Superior Court cases like felonies and civil lawsuits, use the Maricopa County court system. The municipal court and county court are separate.
Gilbert Records Fees
Viewing records in person is free. Fees apply for copies. Gilbert sets fees by ordinance to cover the cost of staff time and materials.
Standard fees for Gilbert records include standard copies at $0.50 per page and certification at $34 per document. These fees are typical for Arizona towns. Police and fire record fees may vary. Check the specific portal when submitting your request.
If your request requires extensive staff time, the town may charge for labor. Staff time charges typically apply when a request takes more than 15 minutes to process. Ask about fee estimates for large requests before the town starts work.
Gilbert Property and Superior Court Records
Property records and Superior Court cases for Gilbert go through Maricopa County. The town does not maintain these records. You need to contact county offices for deeds, liens, property tax data, and court filings.
Visit the Maricopa County Public Records page for property deeds, assessor records, and Superior Court cases. The county Recorder keeps property deeds, mortgages, and liens. The Assessor maintains property tax records and valuations. The Clerk of Superior Court handles civil and criminal case files.
Tips for Gilbert Records Requests
Use the right portal. General records, police records, and fire records have separate systems. Sending your request to the wrong portal delays the process.
Check the council records first. Agendas, minutes, and contracts are searchable online. You may find what you need without filing a formal request.
Be specific about what you want. Include dates, names, and addresses when you know them. Clear requests get faster results.