Washington law requires state and local agencies to make most records available to the public. The law, the Washington State Public Records Act (PRA) (RCW 42.56,) supports the public’s right to be informed about what their government is doing.
What Is the Public Records Act?
The Public Records Act (PRA) makes sure government actions are open to the public.
Some records are exempt from disclosure, but most are available upon request.
General questions about City operations are not public records requests—please contact the relevant department or the City Clerk for help.
Finding City Records
Many City records are already online in our Document Center and other databases.
You can search for:
- City contracts
- Council and commission meeting materials
- Planning and development documents
- City policies and plans
- Budget information
- City code and ordinances
If you can’t find what you need, contact City Hall. Staff are often able to provide common records quickly without a formal request.
City Hall Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–Noon and 1:00–5:00 p.m. (closed legal holidays)
Phone: 425-649-4444
Where to Get Other Records
Not all government records are kept by the City of Newcastle.
- Police reports: King County Sheriff’s Office
- Fire department records: City of Bellevue Fire Department
- Pre-1994 building permits: King County
- School records:
How to Request Records
The easiest way to request City records is through our Public Records Portal.
You can also submit a printed request in person or by mail to:
City Hall, 12835 Newcastle Way, Suite 200, Newcastle, WA 98056