How to Get a Copy of a Police Report in Ontario
Whether you’re a victim of crime, accused, or someone needing documentation for legal, insurance, or court purposes — you have the right to request a copy of a police report in Ontario.
The process and requirements vary slightly depending on who you are and what you need the report for. This guide explains how to request police records from Ontario law enforcement agencies.
❓ What Is a Police Report?
A police report is an official document created by officers that may include:
A summary of a crime or incident
Names of individuals involved
Officer notes and observations
Charges laid or recommended
Witness statements
📌 Reports are considered confidential and are not publicly accessible unless you are directly involved in the case or have legal authorization.
👤 Who Can Request a Police Report?
You can request a report if you are:
A victim of the incident
The accused or suspect
A lawyer acting for one of the parties
A guardian or parent of a minor involved
An insurance company or legal representative (with consent)
📝 How to Request a Police Report in Ontario
1. Contact the Right Police Service
You must submit your request to the specific police service that investigated the incident. For example:
Toronto Police Service – torontopolice.on.ca
Ottawa Police Service – ottawapolice.ca
Peel Regional Police – peelpolice.ca
Each has its own Records Management or Access to Information unit.
2. Submit a Request Under FOI or MFIPPA
Use a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, often under Ontario’s Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).
Download and fill:
Pay the $5 application fee (cheque or credit card)
Include:
Your full name and ID
Incident date, location, and police report number (if known)
Relationship to the case (victim, accused, parent, lawyer)
3. Submit the Form
You can usually file the form:
In person at police headquarters
By mail
Some services allow online FOI requests
⏳ How Long Does It Take?
Response time: Up to 30 calendar days
Complex cases or redactions may take longer
Some details may be blacked out for privacy or security
💸 How Much Does It Cost?
$5 base fee for FOI request
Additional photocopying and processing fees may apply
Victims may request free access in some cases (check with police service)
📌 Summary: Requesting a Police Report in Ontario
✅ Contact the police service that handled the incident
✅ Use a Freedom of Information request (MFIPPA)
✅ Submit the $5 fee and describe the incident clearly
✅ Expect a 30-day response window
✅ Police may redact names or sensitive info for privacy
🛟 Where to Get Help
Legal Aid Ontario – 1-800-668-8258
Local Police FOI Departments – Call the non-emergency line
Community Legal Clinics – Can help you fill out FOI requests
Victim Support Line (Ontario): 1-888-579-2888
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can request a copy of a police report in Ontario?
Anyone can file an FOI request, but your access to the information will depend on your involvement in the case. The police will redact (black out) personal information of other parties to protect their privacy. If you are the accused, your lawyer will typically get this information through the disclosure process from the Crown Attorney.
2. What is the most important piece of information I need to get my report?
The police report number (or "occurrence number") is the most important piece of information. Having this number will make it much faster and easier for the police service to find your specific report.
3. Is there a fee to get a copy of a police report?
Yes. There is a mandatory $5 application fee to submit a Freedom of Information request in Ontario. You may also have to pay additional fees for photocopying and processing time once the report is located.
4. I was the victim of the crime. Do I still have to pay?
In most cases, yes, the $5 application fee is mandatory. However, some police services may waive the additional processing and copying fees for victims. You should check the policy of the specific police service you are dealing with.
5. How long does it take to get a police report?
The processing time can vary significantly depending on the police service and the complexity of the case. It typically takes anywhere from 30 to 60 days, but it can sometimes take longer.
6. Can I just go to the police station and ask for a copy of my report?
No. You cannot simply ask for a copy at the front desk. You must go through the formal Freedom of Information (FOI) request process by filling out the required application form and paying the fee.