Public Information Act Requests
Access to Public Information
Maryland's Public Information Act (PIA), enacted in 1970, grants the public a broad right of access to public records while protecting legitimate governmental interests and the privacy rights of individual citizens.The PIA covers public agencies and officials in Maryland. The PIA is similar in purpose to the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Under the Public Information Act (PIA), you are entitled to review and obtain copies of records, subject to certain exceptions.
The PIA does not require the County to provide information not contained in public record or to create such a record if it does not exist at the time of the request. In accordance with the PIA, the County charges reasonable fees for copying as well as search and preparation of records.
Requests
Written requests for public information should be submitted to the Public Information Officer via letter, email or by clicking to fill out the PIA Request form.
The County will acknowledge requests as soon as possible. The PIA requires a response within 30 days of receipt of the request, unless additional time is needed by the County and granted by the applicant.
The PIA does not require the County to provide information not contained in public record or to create such a record if it does not exist at the time of the request. In accordance with the PIA, the County charges reasonable fees for copying as well as search and preparation of records.
Requests
Written requests for public information should be submitted to the Public Information Officer via letter, email or by clicking to fill out the PIA Request form.
The County will acknowledge requests as soon as possible. The PIA requires a response within 30 days of receipt of the request, unless additional time is needed by the County and granted by the applicant.