What is the
Ohio Public Records Act
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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Ohio
State Records FAQs
The Ohio Public Records Act (Ohio Rev. Code § 149.43) guarantees the public’s right to access records maintained by state and local government agencies, unless exempt.
Anyone — Ohio residents, out-of-state requesters, businesses, journalists, and organizations. No reason is required.
Agencies must respond “promptly” and without unreasonable delay. Courts in Ohio interpret this to mean agencies must act in a reasonable period depending on the request.
No. Requests can be oral or written. However, written requests are recommended so you have a record of what you asked for.
Yes, but only the actual cost of duplication and delivery (copies, CDs, postage). Agencies cannot charge for employee time spent searching or reviewing records.
Examples include police reports, crash data, inmate records, environmental permits, contracts, budgets, and emails of public officials.
Yes. Exemptions include records of ongoing law enforcement investigations, medical records, certain personal information, and attorney-client privileged material.
The agency must cite the legal reason. You may file a mandamus action in court to compel disclosure.
FOIA applies to federal agencies. Ohio’s Public Records Act applies to state and local agencies and does not set a strict deadline, only a “prompt” requirement.
No. The law applies to any person, regardless of residency.