Your right to public records

Florida has one of the strongest open-government laws in the country. These records belong to the public, and you have a broad right to see and copy them. Here is what that means in plain language.

You can inspect or copy almost any government record

A "public record" is any document, email, photo, recording, map, or data file made or received by an agency in connection with official business — regardless of its physical form. If the agency has it, the starting assumption is that you can see it.

You don't have to give your name or a reason

An agency may not require you to identify yourself or explain why you want a record as a condition of access. Providing an email is optional — it just lets the agency send you a tracking number and updates.

The agency must respond within a reasonable time

Florida law does not set a fixed deadline, but it requires the custodian to acknowledge and fulfill requests in good faith and without unreasonable delay. The only lawful delay is the limited, reasonable time needed to locate the records and remove any exempt information.

Fees are limited by law

For copies, an agency may charge up to 15¢ per one-sided page (20¢ double-sided) for standard letter/legal copies, or the actual cost of duplication for other formats. If a request requires extensive clerical or computer time, the agency may add a "special service charge" based on the cost of the lowest-paid person able to do the work. Simply inspecting records is generally free. You are entitled to an itemized estimate before paying.

Some records are exempt — but the agency must tell you why

Specific categories (for example, active criminal investigative information or certain personal identifying information) are exempt by statute. When an agency withholds or redacts something, it must state the specific statutory exemption it is relying on. A blanket "no" without a citation is not a lawful denial.

If you have to sue and you win, the agency may pay your legal fees

This is the part that gives the law its teeth. Under § 119.12, Fla. Stat., if an agency unlawfully refuses access and you file a civil action to enforce your rights, the court shall award you reasonable attorney's fees and costs if you prevail (after giving the agency the required notice). In other words, an agency that ignores or stonewalls a lawful request is exposed to paying for the lawsuit it caused.

If your request stalls

• Follow up in writing with the records custodian and keep a copy.
• You can use the Florida Attorney General's Open Government Mediation Program, a free, voluntary way to resolve disputes without going to court.
• You may file a civil action to compel access — and, if you prevail, recover fees under § 119.12.

This page is general information about Florida law, not legal advice. For a specific situation, consult an attorney.