The Open Public Records Act (OPRA) provides public access to government records. The Municipal Clerk the official custodian of public records. Any individual or firm may request to view or obtain copies of public records as provided by N.J.S.A. 47:1A1.
Anyone requesting copies of public records should complete an OPRA request form.
Looking for information on a Montclair property?
No need to fill out an OPRA request – Township of Montclair is on the Spatial Data Logic (SDL) Portal!
The SDL Portal is an online resource, designed to give you convenient access to a wealth of information regarding all properties in the Township. This includes everything from basic tax lot and owner information to detailed data regarding building, planning, and zoning permits, complaints, violations, and certificates. A valid email address and creation of a free SDL account is required to participate.
Key Features of the SDL Portal
Search for specific information with ease.
The Portal’s convenient search feature allows you to locate a specific property or permit, even with limited information. Search using a full or partial address, owner name, or block/lot number. Searches can also be done using permit or control numbers.
Property Information at your fingertips
The Portal syncs in real-time, which ensures you are getting the most up-to-date information available. You can also access all the functionality of the Portal right from your phone, with the SDL Citizen app. The SDL Citizen app has all the same functionality as the SDL Portal, but is configured to be easy to use from a phone or tablet. SDL Citizen is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be found in the Apple and Google Play stores.
Go to the SDL Portal for Montclair to create your account and find the information you need.
A fee is charged for copies. Some records are immediately available during normal business hours, while other, more complex records will require time to compile and might require an additional fee to make the copies requested, but will normally be available within seven business days.
The New Jersey Government Records Council (GRC) provides “A Citizen’s Guide to OPRA" which can be downloaded here. The guide was assembled to help records requestors understand some of the most common issues regarding the Open Public Records Act.
The Government Records Council (GRC) operates a toll-free inquiry hotline to which requestors of government records and records custodians may call to obtain guidance regarding the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). The toll-free number is 1-866-850-0511.
In addition, the New Jersey League of Municipalities website provides answers to some frequently asked questions about OPRA.