How to Request Bodycam Footage in California

A practical, jurisdiction-specific walkthrough for filing a public-records request for police body-worn camera video in California (CA). This guide is informational and not legal advice.

Governing law

California Public Records Act (Gov. Code § 7920 et seq.) & AB 748 for critical-incident video

Who to send your request to

Agency PRA unit. If the incident involved multiple agencies (city PD plus state troopers plus sheriff), file parallel requests with each.

What to include in the request

The exact date, approximate time window, and location of the incident.
The case, incident, or CAD number if you have it.
Names or badge numbers of involved officers if known.
A clear statement invoking the state's public-records statute.
Your preferred delivery format (electronic file, DVD, thumb drive).
A fee ceiling — e.g. "please contact me before incurring charges above $25."

Fees

Direct duplication cost; redaction time not chargeable

Response timeline

10 days for initial response; 45 days to disclose critical-incident video

If your request is denied

Writ of mandate in Superior Court. Ask for the specific statutory exemption cited; boilerplate "ongoing investigation" denials are frequently reversed on appeal.