How to Request Open Data or API Access - Richmond Bylaw Guide

Richmond, British Columbia maintains an open data program that shares municipal datasets and APIs to support transparency, research and app development. This guide explains how to request dataset releases, request API access or extensions, and when to use a formal Freedom of Information (FOI) request for records not published as open data. It covers which City office handles requests, typical timelines, possible fees or restrictions, enforcement and appeal routes so you can follow the correct administrative and legal steps.

What is Open Data and API Access

Open data are City-published datasets and APIs made available for reuse under the City’s terms. API access may be offered for dynamic datasets (maps, service requests, transportation data) or through the City’s open data portal and developer endpoints. For City policy, portal features and terms see the City of Richmond open data pages ^[1] and the open data catalogue ^[2].

• Identify the dataset or API you need and check the open data catalogue for an existing resource.
• Contact the City unit listed on the dataset page or the Open Data coordinator for clarification.
• Allow time for review; administrative turnaround varies by request complexity.

How to Request Open Data or an API

Start by searching the City of Richmond open data portal for existing datasets and API endpoints. If the dataset or API is not available, submit a request following the portal instructions or contact the City’s Open Data coordinator. For records that are not suitable for open publication, a formal FOI request under provincial legislation is the route; the City’s FOI page explains how to submit that request ^[3].

• If a dataset is not listed, use the portal’s dataset request form or email the Open Data team with a clear description and intended use.
• Provide sample fields, formats and frequency so the City can assess effort and privacy concerns.
• If significant staff time or custom extraction is required, the City may set a cost-recovery fee; check the dataset or contact the coordinator.
• For restricted or sensitive records, follow the FOI procedure referenced on the City site.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City’s open data terms and FOI framework set the operating terms and potential enforcement measures. Specific monetary fines for misuse of open data or API access are not stated on the cited open data or FOI pages; where amounts or specific ticketing rules are absent the text below notes that those figures are "not specified on the cited page". Enforcement is typically administrative and may involve suspension of access, takedown notices, contract or license termination, or referral to legal action.

• Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation: first and repeat offence procedures and ranges are not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: suspension or revocation of API keys, takedown orders, and administrative remedies are possible per the City’s terms.
• Enforcer: City of Richmond Open Data coordinator, Information Technology and Legal Services; FOI requests handled by the City’s FOI Coordinator. Use the official contact pages to submit complaints or report misuse ^[1][3].
• Appeals and review: administrative review or legal appeal routes are governed by City policy and provincial FOI appeal mechanisms; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited pages and FOI appeals follow provincial timelines under FIPPA.
• Defences/discretion: the City may consider permits, licences or reasonable excuse; privacy, security or third-party rights can justify restriction.

Applications & Forms

The City uses the open data portal for dataset requests and provides FOI request instructions for records not published as open data. The open data portal includes dataset request functionality and terms; specific form names or fees for custom extracts are not consistently itemized on the portal and may require contacting the Open Data coordinator. For formal FOI requests use the City FOI submission instructions and form linked on the City website ^[3].

FAQ

How long does a dataset request take?

Timelines vary by complexity; minor requests may be handled in weeks while custom or sensitive extractions will take longer and are assessed case-by-case.

Is there a fee for API access?

Open data is generally free under the City’s terms, but custom extracts or significant staff time may incur cost-recovery fees; check the dataset page or contact the Open Data team.

When should I file an FOI instead of an open data request?

If the record is not public, is behind a third-party system, or contains personal information, use the FOI process described by the City and provincial legislation.

How-To

1. Search the City of Richmond open data portal for the dataset or API you need.
2. Use the portal’s dataset request form or email the Open Data coordinator with dataset scope, fields and intended use.
3. If the data are not suitable for open publication, prepare and submit a formal FOI request following the City’s FOI instructions.
4. Pay any required fees or arrange cost-recovery if the City indicates a charge for custom work.
5. If access is denied, follow the appeal or review instructions provided in the City response or FOI decision.

Key Takeaways

• Search the open data portal before requesting new data to avoid duplication.
• Contact the Open Data coordinator for scope, format and possible fees.
• Use FOI for records not suitable for open publication.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of Richmond - Open Data
• Richmond Open Data Catalogue
• City of Richmond - Freedom of Information
• City of Richmond - Bylaw Services

1. [1] City of Richmond - Open Data
2. [2] Richmond Open Data Catalogue
3. [3] City of Richmond - Freedom of Information