What is the
Iowa Open 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.
How Calunah Works
Answer a few questions, let Calunah generate your letter, then download and send it confidently.
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We generate your letter, you submit it. We don’t contact agencies for you. That keeps your information in your control.
Iowa
State Records FAQs
The Iowa Open Records Law (Iowa Code Chapter 22) requires government agencies to make public records available for inspection and copying, except those protected by confidentiality laws.
Anyone, whether a resident or not, may request public records under Iowa law.
Agencies must respond within 20 calendar days and provide access as soon as feasible.
Requests can be made verbally or in writing, but written requests are encouraged for clarity and documentation.
Yes. Agencies may charge for copying and for actual staff time required to locate and review records, though fees must be reasonable.
Examples include police reports, contracts, budgets, school performance data, and environmental permits.
Yes. Common exemptions include personal privacy information, trade secrets, student or medical data, and ongoing criminal investigations.
You can request a written explanation for any denial and may challenge it in district court if you believe it violates the law.
FOIA applies to federal agencies, while Iowa’s Open Records Law applies to state and local agencies and typically results in quicker access.
No. Iowa’s Open Records Law is open to any person, regardless of residency.



