How to File a Public Records Request in Ohio

Ohio has one of the strongest public records laws in the nation. Under ORC § 149.43, public records must be made available for inspection "promptly" and copies must be provided within a "reasonable period of time." Here's everything you need to know.

Key Features of Ohio's Law

No written request required: You can request records verbally (but written is always better for documentation)

No reason required: You don't have to explain why you want the records

Prompt response: Ohio courts have sanctioned agencies for taking more than 3-5 business days

Statutory damages: Courts can award $100/day in damages for unreasonable delays, up to $1,000

Mandatory attorney fees: If you prevail in a mandamus action, the agency pays your attorney fees

No FOIA fees: Ohio law limits fees to the actual cost of copies — no search fees, no review fees

How to File

Identify the records you want

Send a written request to the agency's records custodian

Cite ORC § 149.43

Request electronic copies if available

What's Public in Ohio

Almost everything. Ohio's Public Records Act has very few exemptions compared to federal FOIA:

Medical records

Trade secrets

Attorney-client privileged communications

Active criminal investigation records (narrowly construed)

Personal information of minors

Enforcement

If an agency denies or delays your request:

File a complaint with the Ohio Court of Claims (free, informal process)

File a mandamus action in court

Contact the Ohio Attorney General's Public Records Mediation Program

File your Ohio public records request →