Special Census Program

A Special Census is a basic enumeration of population, housing units, group quarters, and units at transitory locations, conducted by the Census Bureau at the request of a Governmental Unit. Title 13, United States Code, section 196 authorizes the Census Bureau to conduct Special Censuses on a cost reimbursable basis for the government of any state, county, city, or other political subdivision. This includes the District of Columbia, American Indian Reservations, Alaska Native villages, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Island Areas, and other Governmental Units that require current population data between decennial censuses. A full Special Census is a basic enumeration of population, housing units, group quarters, and units at transitory locations for an area entirely within the jurisdiction of a local Governmental Unit requesting the Special Census. A partial Special Census is conducted using the same methodologies and procedures as a regular or full Special Census, but it is for a subset of areas within the jurisdiction of the local Governmental Unit. The areas requested in a partial Special Census must contain at least one full tract that is completely within the jurisdiction of the Governmental Unit and can contain additional contiguous tracts or blocks. For example, Governmental Units may choose to conduct a partial Special Census with just those tracts that might have experienced a large population growth or a boundary change.

The latest form for Special Census Program expires 2028-12-31 and is listed under ICR 202509-0607-004.

Special Census Program

Federal Enterprise Architecture: General Government - Central Records & Statistical Mgt

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