Toronto Open Data API

API

Free open data API for Toronto city government datasets

Overview

The Toronto Open Data API offers RESTful access to over 2,000 city government datasets via CKAN-based endpoints. It supports responses in JSON (metadata/records), CSV, XML, and GeoJSON for geospatial data. Key endpoints include dataset search (/api/3/action/package_search), resource details (/api/3/action/resource_show), and datastore queries (/api/3/action/datastore_search). Use cases include urban planning research, transit app development, public service analytics, and community tool creation. It adheres to open standards, enabling seamless integration with visualization and analytics platforms.

Example Integration (JavaScript)

script.js JS


fetch('https://open.toronto.ca/')
  .then(res => res.json())
  .then(data => console.log(data))
  .catch(err => console.error(err));

Key Features

RESTful CKAN-based endpoints
Multiple formats (JSON, CSV, GeoJSON, XML)
No API key for public access
2000+ diverse datasets
Geospatial data support

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is the Toronto Open Data API free to use?

Yes, all public datasets via the API are free to access and use under the Toronto Open Data License.

? Does it require an API Key?

No, most public endpoints do not require an API key. Advanced/high-volume uses may need registration for higher rate limits.

? What response formats are available?

Responses include JSON (metadata/records), CSV, XML, and GeoJSON for geospatial datasets like transit routes or parks.

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Tool Info

Pricing Free

Category Government

Platform Public API

Pros

⊕ Free access to all public datasets
⊕ Covers transit, health, environment, and more
⊕ Open standards compliance
⊕ Regular dataset updates
⊕ Geospatial query capabilities

Cons

⊖ Rate limits for high-volume requests
⊖ Variable documentation quality across datasets
⊖ Some datasets lack real-time updates
⊖ No official SLA for uptime