Use the public record responsibly.
The Common currently provides free, read-only API access designed to support reporting, research, civic technology, education, and other public-interest work.
What we ask
Keep your API key private, respect the published throttle and daily quota, and identify The Common as the data source when practical. Public access does not guarantee that every record is complete, current, or suitable for a particular decision.
What is not allowed
- Attempting to bypass quotas, suspensions, or other service protections.
- Sharing, selling, or publishing an API key for use by unrelated parties.
- Disrupting the API, probing private systems, or accessing unpublished information.
- Using the service to harass people, misrepresent public records, or violate applicable law.
Enforcement and support
We may suspend a key to protect the service or investigate misuse. Email devin@thecommonnews.com if you believe access was suspended by mistake or need help adapting a high-volume public-interest project.
Last updated September 8, 2026.