How do I file a public records request in Washington?
1. Statute. Washington Public Records Act (PRA), RCW Ch. 42.56. One of the most pro-disclosure laws in the country; exemptions narrowly construed.
2. Who Can Request. Any person—no residency requirement (RCW 42.56.080). Incarcerated individuals face additional procedures but retain access.
3. Form of Request. Written or oral; written recommended. Must provide a "fair description" sufficient for the agency to locate the records (RCW 42.56.080).
4. Agency Response Deadline. 5 business days to provide records, deny, acknowledge with a reasonable estimate of time, or seek clarification (RCW 42.56.520). Agency must produce in installments for large requests.
5. Fees. Statutory default schedule (RCW 42.56.120): $0.15 per page for letter/legal; $0.10 per page for scans; $0.05 per 4 electronic files; $0.10 per gigabyte for electronic transmission. May be waived. Agency must publish a fee schedule.
6. Exemptions. RCW 42.56.230-.480 and "other statutes" exemptions: personal privacy, investigative records of law enforcement (active), attorney-client, attorney work product, deliberative process (preliminary drafts), trade secrets, library records, security plans, biometric data.
7. Redaction. Agency must redact and produce remainder (RCW 42.56.210(1)).
8. Denial & Appeal. Written denial citing the specific exemption and a brief explanation required (RCW 42.56.210(3)). No mandatory administrative appeal, but agencies may offer internal review.
9. Court Action. Motion to show cause in superior court (RCW 42.56.550). De novo review. Expedited hearing.
10. Penalties. Court must impose daily penalty of $5 to $100 per record per day for any agency action denying inspection without justification (RCW 42.56.550(4)). Attorney fees, costs, and penalty mandatory for prevailing requester.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Agency invokes a broad statutory exemption you believe is misapplied
- Daily penalties are accruing and you want to file a show-cause motion
- Records involve police body-cam, internal affairs, or sealed law-enforcement files
- RCW Ch. 42.56 (Washington 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.