Access to Public Records

The Code of Alabama 1975, Section 36-12-40, states that "Every citizen has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of this state, except as otherwise expressly provided by statute." It is the policy of the City of Montgomery, Alabama (the City) to provide access to inspect and make copies available of open public records that are received or created in the normal course of the City’s business operations. In order to facilitate this service, and minimize cost for all of Montgomery’s citizens, the City has adopted the following policy to insure that the right of access is always protected and records are readily available under reasonable conditions.

1.0 Members of the public will be provided access to the City’s official records on regular business days, Monday through Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Copies of records may be obtained during the same hours.

2.0 To insure accuracy and timely records production, the records request initiator must complete the form entitled “Request for Public Records.” Please include as much information that you feel will be helpful for City staff to locate the required records. This form is available at:

3.0 In addition to in-person requests for copies, the City will provide copies by mail or fax. A copy of the form entitled “Request for Public Records” must be received prior to the City’s staff commencing work on a records request. Remit requests to the following mailing address or to the fax number:

4.0 The designated City staff will provide the records you request as quickly as possible. Because of issues, such as; limited staff, records stored off-site, large volume of records requested, complexity of the request, and requirement of staff supervision during records inspection, you may be asked to return to inspect the records or to obtain copies. 

4.1 Records requested in person will be available within 48 hours for simple, routine requests. However, every effort will be made to provide copies immediately or to accommodate on-site reference requests.

4.2 Record requests that are more non-routine (defined as complex or extensive) in nature may require additional time to research and produce. As required, additional charges for production will be applied. If possible, prior to commencing work, the requestor will be informed as to the time required and all estimated costs associated with researching, copying, certification (if required), and staff time, including information technology resources. (See item 4.3 for additional detail.)

To download a copy of the POLICY for ACCESS to PUBLIC RECORDS click here and REQUEST for PUBLIC RECORDS click here.