How do I file a public records request in Tennessee?
1. Statute. Tennessee Public Records Act, T.C.A. §§ 10-7-503 to 10-7-516.
2. Who Can Request. Limited to citizens of Tennessee (§ 10-7-503(a)(2)(A)). The agency may require proof of Tennessee citizenship (e.g., a driver's license).
3. Form of Request. Oral or written; agency may require the request to be in writing. Must describe records with reasonable specificity. Many agencies have official request forms.
4. Agency Response Deadline. 7 business days from receipt to either produce records, deny, or provide a written timeline for production (§ 10-7-503(a)(2)(B)). Failure to respond within 7 business days is a denial.
5. Fees. Inspection is free (§ 10-7-503(a)(2)(B)). Copy fees follow the Office of Open Records Counsel (OORC) schedule—typically $0.15 per page for letter/legal copies. Labor charges allowed for requests requiring more than 1 hour of staff time, at the hourly rate of the lowest-paid qualified employee.
6. Exemptions. § 10-7-504 and other statutes: medical records, juvenile records, personnel records (limited), criminal investigation records (active), attorney work product, attorney-client privilege, trade secrets, identifying info of crime victims, library records, security plans, computer security info.
7. Redaction. Agency must redact exempt portions and produce remainder.
8. Denial & Appeal. Written denial citing the specific basis required (§ 10-7-503(a)(2)(B)(iii)). No administrative appeal—the Office of Open Records Counsel provides free informal mediation and advisory opinions.
9. Court Action. Petition for access in chancery or circuit court (§ 10-7-505). De novo review; expedited.
10. Penalties. Court may assess all reasonable costs and attorney fees against the agency if it determines the agency knew the record was public and willfully refused to disclose (§ 10-7-505(g)). No civil fine.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Agency challenges your Tennessee citizenship or refuses to produce despite proof
- OORC mediation fails and you need to petition for access
- You want attorney fees for willful denial under § 10-7-505(g)
- T.C.A. §§ 10-7-503 to 10-7-516 (Tennessee Public Records Act)
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.