Frequently asked questions
Quick answers. Each one will link to a full guide as Page publishes them. For the methodology behind these answers, see methodology.
- What is a public record in Florida?
- Under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, a public record is any material made or received by an agency in connection with official business, regardless of physical form. Emails, texts, body cam footage, contracts, payroll, and most agency communications all qualify.
- Do I have to be a Florida resident to request records?
- No. Anyone can request Florida public records, from anywhere. You do not need to live in Florida and you do not need to be a U.S. citizen.
- Do I have to give my name or say why I want the records?
- No. You do not have to identify yourself and you do not have to explain your reason for requesting. The agency can ask, but you do not have to answer.
- Does my request have to be in writing?
- No. Florida law lets you request records by phone, in person, or in writing. A written request is still smarter, because it creates a record of what you asked for and when.
- How long does an agency have to respond?
- The statute says agencies must respond in a reasonable time. Florida courts have rejected arbitrary waits and fixed delays. A response within a few business days is reasonable for most requests. Weeks of silence is not.
Educational content from Request Florida Records. Not legal advice.