What is the
Virginia Freedom of Information 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.
How Calunah Works
Answer a few questions, let Calunah generate your letter, then download and send it confidently.
Choose Your Record Type
Answer a Few Quick Questions
Get Your Request Letter Instantly
Popular
Virginia
Records You Can Request
Start Your
Virginia
Records Request
We generate your letter, you submit it. We don’t contact agencies for you. That keeps your information in your control.
Virginia
State Records FAQs
Virginia FOIA (Va. Code § 2.2-3700) guarantees public access to state and local records, unless exempt.
Only Virginia citizens and members of the media that circulate or broadcast in Virginia.
Agencies must respond within 5 working days. They may extend for 7 more working days with written notice.
No, but written requests are strongly recommended for clarity and recordkeeping.
Yes. Agencies may charge the actual costs of searching, duplicating, and supplying records. If costs exceed $200, a deposit may be required.
Examples: police reports, contracts, emails of officials, budgets, environmental permits, and inmate data.
Yes. Exemptions include active investigations, personnel records, attorney-client communications, and security information.
You may petition for relief in general district or circuit court. Agencies must cite specific statutory exemptions.
Federal FOIA covers federal agencies. Virginia FOIA covers state and local agencies and is limited to Virginia citizens.
Yes. Access is restricted to Virginia citizens (or qualifying media outlets).



