What is the
Alabama’s Public Records Law
Each State has their own version of the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), which allows you to request public records from government agencies.
Calunah drafts your request letter so it’s professional and ready to submit—then you simply send it to the agency.
Our platform ensures your request is formatted correctly, saving time, and avoiding errors, while keeping your personal information private.
Whether it’s for business, research, or personal purposes, being able to request government records is your right.
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Alabama
State Records FAQs
Alabama’s Public Records Law (Ala. Code § 36-12-40 et seq.) provides access to records kept by state and local agencies unless specifically exempt.
Any person may request records; there is no residency requirement or need to explain your purpose.
The statute does not set a firm deadline, but agencies must respond within a reasonable time considering the request’s scope and complexity.
Written requests are recommended, and many agencies require them to ensure clarity and accurate processing.
Agencies may charge reasonable costs for duplication and, when appropriate, for staff time needed to locate and prepare records, especially for large electronic requests.
Common requests include law-enforcement reports, contracts and purchasing, environmental permits, personnel rosters and salaries, budgets, and emails.
Exemptions include records whose disclosure would compromise public safety or investigations, privileged materials, and certain sensitive personal information.
If a request is denied or delayed unreasonably, you may seek relief in state court; a written denial should cite the legal basis.
FOIA covers federal agencies only; Alabama’s Public Records Law covers state and local agencies and relies on reasonableness rather than rigid deadlines.
No. Alabama’s law allows any person, including out-of-state requesters, to seek records.

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