FOIA Requests
Freedom of Information Act
What is FOIA?
FOIA is the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), records in possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon written request. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140, Section 2©, a public record is any records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, recorded information and all other documentary materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared, or having been or being used, received, possessed or under the control of any public body. Records that are not subject to release via the FOIA process include confidential and trade secret information.
To make a FOIA Request:
- The request must be in writing.
- Be specific in what information you want.
- State if you want a cost estimate in advance.
- You may use your own format or use a simple form created for the public. Request a FOIA Request Form from the Department Listing.
- Please note: attachments sent to County email addresses must be sent in PDF format. All other attachment file types will be rejected.
Here are examples of major existing reports currently available:
- Financial Information
- Reports of County Officials
- Database Searches (Online Records or Property Records)
- Ready-to-Print Maps
- Looking for something special? Search our A-Z Index!
About FOIA
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a state statute (5 ILCS 140/1-140/11) that provides for a straight-forward, easy-to-use method for the public to gain access to government records. Any person who wishes to inspect and/or obtain copies of public records from the County of DeKalb shall follow the rules below, in accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, effective July 1, 1984.
Find additional information about FOIA and Frequently Asked Questions by visiting the Illinois Attorney General’s Website.
Illinois Attorney General
