Berkeley’s Lobbyist Registration Act
The Berkeley City Council adopted the Lobbyist Registration Act (Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 2.09) on October 2, 2018. Beginning on January 1, 2020, every local governmental lobbyist must register prior to any lobbying activity taking place. A person qualifies as a local governmental lobbyist in the City of Berkeley if the individual:
Receives or is entitled to receive one thousand dollars ($1,000) or more in economic consideration in a calendar month (other than reimbursement for reasonable travel expenses) to communicate directly or through agents with any elected or appointed City official or City employee, for the purpose of influencing any proposed or pending governmental action of the City; or
- Is a salaried employee, officer, or director of a corporation, organization or association, and whose duties include communication directly or through agents with any elected or appointed City official or City employee, for the purpose of influencing any proposed or pending governmental action of the City.
Lobbyists are required to file quarterly or annual reports which are
available to the public through an online portal. A fee of $500 is due with registration. Non-profit organizations are exempt from the fee. Lobbyists must re-register annually.
Lobbyist Registration Act Resources
For more information, please refer to the following resources:
Online Filing Portal
Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 2.09
Lobbyist Manual Background Information, Rules and Procedures
Open Government Commission
Forms for Lobbyists
Lobbyist Registration Form
Lobbyist Registration Act Training
Affirmation of Lobbyist Training
If you have additional questions, please contact the City Clerk Department at (510) 981-6908 elections@cityofberkeley.info.