What is a Public Record?

Public records are any documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, tapes, electronic data, and other material produced or received by government agencies in the course of their duties.

While North Carolina Public Records law mandates public access to records, there are exemptions. Certain records may be withheld for reasons such as:

• Protection of personal privacy (e.g., Social Security numbers, medical records).
• Ongoing law enforcement investigations.
• Trade secrets or proprietary information.
• Some confidential information protected by other laws (e.g., attorney-client privilege).

Examples of Public Records:

• Emails between public officials related to government business.
• Meeting minutes and agendas of public bodies.
• Police reports (unless exempt).
• Budget reports and financial records of public entities.
• Permits and licenses issued by governmental bodies.

If you are unsure whether your request falls under the guidelines of a Public Records Request, you will likely be better served using our Contact Us online form which will put you in touch directly with the department you wish to contact or request information from.

Other commonly used forms to reach a specific department, which would not always fall under a Public Records Request, include:

• Environmental Health 
• Sheriff’s Office
• Vital Records (through the Register of Deeds)

Please select an option below to submit your request.