Lobbyist Rules
The Public Ethics Commission ensures compliance with the City of Oakland's lobbyist registration laws.
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Who Qualifies as a Lobbyist?
Under the Lobbyist Registration Act, you qualify as a local government lobbyists if:
- You are paid $1,000 or more in a calendar month to communicate with City officials to influence any proposed or pending governmental, legislative or administrative action.
- Your duties as an employee, officer, or director of an organization or business entity include communicating (directly or through an agent) with City officials or employees to influence any proposed or pending governmental, legislative or administrative action.
Registration and Disclosure
Use our online system to register as an Oakland lobbyist and submit quarterly lobbyist activity reports. A public registry of Oakland lobbyists and lobbyist reports is also available online.
The Law
The Lobbyist Registration Act requires registration and activity disclosure for individuals and groups that influence public decisions by lobbying City public servants.
Resources
The Commission publishes education materials and a comprehensive guide to the Lobbyist Registration Act to assist you in complying with local law.
Lobbying Activity Report Deadlines
Oakland lobbyists must file Quarterly Activity Reports, including for quarters when they conducted no lobbying activity. There are no deadline extensions, and the Public Ethics Commission may assess late fees of $10 per day up to $1,000 for reports filed after the deadline, in addition to other administrative penalties under Oakland law.
Submit Lobbyist Reports
Reports may be filed 24/7 using the online registration and reporting app.
Reporting Periods and Deadlines
- Q1: Jan. 1 – Mar. 31
Due April 30
- Q2: April 1 – June 30
Due July 31
- Q3: July 1 – Sept. 30
Due October 31
- Q4: October 1 – Dec. 31
Due Jan 31