Georgia
Georgia Open Records Act
O.C.G.A. §§ 50-18-70 to 50-18-77
Transparency Score: 92/100
Response Timeline
3 business days to produce records for inspection (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71(b)(1)(A)). If some records available sooner, must provide those within 3 days. If records unavailable within 3 days, must provide description and timeline within 3 days. Must notify within 3 business days if costs exceed $25. One of the shortest response deadlines in the US.
No residency requirement. Any 'person, firm, corporation, or other entity' may request records.
How to Submit a Request
Accepted Methods
No specific form or format required. Requesters may use portable devices to make their own copies. Agencies must produce records in requested electronic format if existing programs support it.
Required Elements
- Description of records sought
Optional Elements
- Preferred format (electronic or paper)
- Contact information for cost estimates
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copies (per page) | USD0.10 |
Must use 'most economical means reasonably calculated' to identify records. First quarter hour of search time is free. Requesters can avoid copy fees by bringing their own camera/scanner. May require prepayment if prior requests remain unpaid (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71(d)).
Fee Waivers
- Act neither requires nor prohibits fee waivers; agencies may waive at discretion
No statutory requirement for fee waivers, but agencies may voluntarily waive fees.
Exemptions
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Records specifically required by federal law to be kept confidential (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(1))
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Medical or veterinary records where disclosure would be invasion of privacy (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(2))
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Law enforcement records including ongoing investigations, witness identities, and confidential informants (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(4))
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Trade secrets and confidential commercial information (implied through privacy analysis)
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Attorney-client privileged communications (case law)
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Computer programs and software (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(44))
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Trial exhibits require judge approval to access (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(c))
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Communications with legislative counsel (O.C.G.A. § 28-4-3.1)
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Certain personnel records including evaluations and disciplinary materials
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Security plans and vulnerability assessments
Exemptions interpreted narrowly - must exclude only portions addressed by exception (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70(a)). Denials must cite specific 'Code section, subsection, and paragraph' (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71(d)). Strong presumption favoring disclosure.
Appeal Process
1
For local government disputes, the Attorney General's Open Government Mediation Program provides non-binding mediation. Not available for state agencies.
2
File civil action in Superior Court. Both private parties and Attorney General may sue (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-73(a)). Agency bears burden of proving exemption. Priority review available.
No formal administrative appeal required. AG mediation program available for local government disputes only. Primary enforcement through Superior Court litigation. Criminal sanctions possible for willful violations.
Request Templates
NFOIC Georgia Sample Request →
National Freedom of Information Coalition
Georgia AG Open Government FAQ →
Georgia Attorney General's Office
RCFP Open Government Guide - Georgia →
Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
MuckRock Georgia Guide →
MuckRock
Records Retention
O.C.G.A. 50-18-90 et seq. (Article 5, State Records Management)
The Georgia Records Act requires each agency to designate a records management officer. The State Records Committee approves all retention schedules. Records may not be disposed of without an approved schedule. Retention periods are based on historical, administrative, financial, and legal value.