Public Records Request

State Public Records Request & Resources

Public records resouces, documents and request links by agency, commission and programs.

A public request for records is a way of accessing information that is held by a government agency. In order request a public record from a state of Oregon agency, commission or program, a direct request can be made directly from the agency public records specific webpage, found in the list below. Oregon SB 515 (2015) was passed during the 2015 Legislative Session. As a result, “information describing the process for requesting copies of public records from a public body, including a link to the public records section of the Department of Justice webpage” is included below.

SB 515 (2015) Oregon Department of Justice Public Records Request

Public Records Request Agency - Entity Contacts

The report below provides up to date state agency - entity contacts and direct links for public records requests for each agency.

Public Records Request & Public Documents Resources

State Library of Oregon’s State Publications

State Library of Oregon Digital Collections contains publications on various aspects of Oregon history and culture, with an emphasis on Oregon state government publications.

State Library of Oregon Digital Collections

Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) Resources

For more information on public records, exemptions, related manuals and more.

DOJ Public Records and Meetings Law

Office of the Public Records Advocate (OPRA)

The OPRA provides dispute resolution services, training, guidance and advice to improve the administration of Oregon’s public records law.

Oregon Public Records Advocate

Secretary of State (SOS) Archival Records

Searchable archival records through the ORMS, a records management solution that provides public access to a variety of records from any jurisdiction in Oregon that chooses to participate.

Secretary of State Archival Records

Did you know...

What is a public record?

Public records are documents or pieces of information that are not considered confidential and generally pertain to the conduct of government.

Oregon’s open government laws promote democracy and transparency. Oregonians have a right to know how their government works and spends money.

Records Management Guidance
ORS 357001(5): The state of Oregon recognizes: “It is a basic right of citizens to know about the activities of their government, to benefit from the information developed at public expense and to have permanent access to the information published by state agencies.”

ORS 357 - Libraries; State Archivist; Poet Laureate

Who is subject to Public Records Law?

The law applies to every public body, including every state officer, agency, department, bureau, board, and commission, as well as every county and city governing body, school district, special district, municipal corporation, or any board, department, commission, council or agency thereof.

How to request a public record?

You must make a public records request to the government agency or official who has or controls the record. You may submit your request in writing, including email. All public bodies in Oregon must have a written procedure for making public records requests.

Public Records & Meeting Manual