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Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) processes all requests for public records generated by the general public and the media. These may include, but are not limited to, incident reports, fire investigation reports, department personnel files, department policies and procedures, data reports, and interoffice memos.
In order to streamline processing, ensure accuracy and track progress, all public record requests must be submitted in writing. Public record requests are divided into two categories: for the general public and for the media.
General Public Records Requests
Send E-Mail requests to MDFRpublicrecords@miamidade.gov with the individual/company's name and "Public Record Request" in the subject line.
Send Standard Mail requests to: Miami-Dade Fire Rescue
Program and Staff Review Division
Attn: Public Record Request
9300 NW 41 Street
Miami, FL 33178
Media Public Records Requests
Send E-Mail requests to MDFRmediarecords@miamidade.gov with the media organization's name and "Public Record Request" in the subject line.
Send Standard Mail requests to: Miami-Dade Fire Rescue
Media and Public Relations Bureau
Attn: Public Record Request
9300 NW 41 Street
Miami, FL 33178
The request should specify the preferred method of receiving document copies, either by standard mail (provide mailing address) or e-mail (provide e-mail address), or copies may be received in person at MDFR Headquarters, 9300 NW 41st Street, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
In accordance with all laws, MDFR may charge for various aspects of providing public records whenever appropriate. Possible fees related to public record requests may include:
- Copy fee of 15 cents per page
- Mail or delivery charges
- Attorney fees, when necessary
- Personnel costs when employees must be assigned to tasks specifically dedicated to processing the record request including, but not limited to, locating, gathering, summarizing, compiling, reviewing, or redacting public records, and segregating exempt records from those that are non-exempt.
- Requests to inspect records on-site may include charges for personnel costs incurred while preparing the records for review, and staff oversight and guidance while records are being reviewed.
MDFR will respond as soon as possible and without unreasonable delay to all public record requests generated by the media. MDFR may request additional information or clarification from the requester for the purpose of expediting response. Upon receipt of the request, MDFR will acknowledge receipt of the request with one of the following:
- (a) A statement that the MDFR is not the custodian of the public record; or
- (b) A statement that MDFR is the custodian of the record or a portion thereof, with an estimate of the time it will take to process the request and an invoice estimate of the fees that the requester must pay as a condition of receiving the public records; or
- (c) A statement that state or federal law prohibits MDFR from providing the requested records due to medical privacy laws or other exemptions.
For more information about requesting MDFR public records, please call 786-331-5000.
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