To read a list of OPRA exemptions, click here:
You can submit your request in any of the following ways:
When filling out your OPRA request, please provide:
Providing a clear, specific description of the records helps avoid delays or the need for clarification.
For requests involving multiple subjects or record types, consider breaking your request into separate submissions. Separating different subjects, properties, departments, or categories of records can make it easier to identify the specific records you are seeking and may help avoid the need for clarification
Use the following tips when describing the records you are requesting:
If you are seeking records concerning different subjects, record types, or municipal functions, consider submitting separate OPRA requests. A request that combines multiple unrelated categories of records may require coordination with multiple Borough departments and may require additional time or clarification.
For each request, identify the specific records you are seeking rather than asking the Borough to identify, research, or compile information from multiple sources.
For example: Instead of requesting tax records, utility records, code enforcement records, vacant-property records, and Fire Department records in one request, consider submitting a separate request for each specific record category or subject.
Submitting focused requests helps the Borough identify the appropriate records and reduces the need for clarification.
Example of a well-written request:
“I am requesting copies of all zoning board resolutions for Block 1201, Lots 9.03 and 9.04, approved between January and June 2025.”
Tip: Avoid vague or open-ended language such as “all documents related to…” or “all records concerning…” unless you are intentionally seeking a broad range of records. When possible, identify the specific record type, subject, and date range. Requests that combine numerous unrelated records or subjects may require clarification or additional processing time.
Police department records are handled separately. To request records such as incident reports, accident reports, or other police documents, please use the following form link
For assistance with OPRA requests, contact opra@englewoodcliffsnj.org for municipal records or records@ecpolice.org for police records.
Helpful links:
How to Submit an OPRA Request
You can submit your request in any of the following ways:
- Online: Fill out the digital OPRA request form here (for non-police records). For Police records please submit to records@ecpolice.org
- Downloadable Form: Download the printable OPRA form here.
- In Person: Pick up a copy at the Municipal Clerk’s Office: 482 Hudson Terrace, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Complete the Form
When filling out your OPRA request, please provide:
- Your Contact Information: Full name, mailing address, phone number, and email (if applicable).
- Preferred Delivery Method: Indicate how you would like to receive the records—by email, mail, fax, or in-person pickup.
- Description of Records Requested: Be as specific and detailed as possible (see tips below).
How to Describe the Records You’re Requesting
Providing a clear, specific description of the records helps avoid delays or the need for clarification.
For requests involving multiple subjects or record types, consider breaking your request into separate submissions. Separating different subjects, properties, departments, or categories of records can make it easier to identify the specific records you are seeking and may help avoid the need for clarification
Use the following tips when describing the records you are requesting:
- Document Type: Specify what you are requesting (e.g., building permits, meeting minutes, contracts, inspection reports, police incident reports, emails, etc.).
- Date Range: Include exact dates or a general timeframe (e.g., “January 1–March 15, 2024” or “Fall 2023”).
- Department or Individual: Include the relevant office, board, or employee if known (e.g., “Clerk’s Office,” “Police Department,” or “emails sent by the Borough Administrator”).
- Reference Details: Include addresses, block and lot numbers, case or application numbers, or other identifiers when applicable.
Keep Your OPRA Request Focused
To help the Borough process your request efficiently, please keep your request focused on a specific record, subject, property, project, or matter.If you are seeking records concerning different subjects, record types, or municipal functions, consider submitting separate OPRA requests. A request that combines multiple unrelated categories of records may require coordination with multiple Borough departments and may require additional time or clarification.
For each request, identify the specific records you are seeking rather than asking the Borough to identify, research, or compile information from multiple sources.
For example: Instead of requesting tax records, utility records, code enforcement records, vacant-property records, and Fire Department records in one request, consider submitting a separate request for each specific record category or subject.
Submitting focused requests helps the Borough identify the appropriate records and reduces the need for clarification.
Example of a well-written request:
“I am requesting copies of all zoning board resolutions for Block 1201, Lots 9.03 and 9.04, approved between January and June 2025.”
Tip: Avoid vague or open-ended language such as “all documents related to…” or “all records concerning…” unless you are intentionally seeking a broad range of records. When possible, identify the specific record type, subject, and date range. Requests that combine numerous unrelated records or subjects may require clarification or additional processing time.
Police Records
Police department records are handled separately. To request records such as incident reports, accident reports, or other police documents, please use the following form link
Questions & Resources
For assistance with OPRA requests, contact opra@englewoodcliffsnj.org for municipal records or records@ecpolice.org for police records.
Helpful links: