Arizona Public Records

Are Arizona Records Public?

Yes, Arizona records are public under the Arizona Public Records Law. This law has been in existence for more than 100 years and mandates that all public records be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours. The foundation of Arizona's public records access is codified in Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 39-121, which states: "Public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours."

Arizona law requires all officers and public bodies to maintain records reasonably necessary to provide an accurate accounting of their official activities and of any government-funded activities. These records must be available for public inspection and copying unless specifically exempted by law. Public records in Arizona are considered the property of the state, not of the individuals who create or maintain them. Arizona Ombudsman Citizens' Aide

What Information Is Included in Arizona Public Records?

Arizona public records encompass a wide range of documents and information maintained by state and local government agencies. Examples of public records include:

1. Vital records (birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates)
2. Property records (deeds, assessments, property tax records)
3. Court records (civil and criminal case files, probate records)
4. Business records (licenses, incorporation documents)
5. Law enforcement records (accident reports, arrest records)
6. Professional licenses
7. Voter registration information
8. Tax records
9. Government contracts and expenditures
10. Meeting minutes and agendas of public bodies

The Arizona Ombudsman's Office defines public records as including "calendars, reports, legal memoranda, policies and procedures, accident reports, training videos and materials, tape recordings of meetings where there are no written minutes, personnel records, case files, and data bases." These records provide an accurate accounting of government officials' activities and decisions. Arizona State Library

What Does the Arizona Public Records Law Do?

The Arizona Public Records Law, primarily found in Title 39, Chapter 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, establishes several important rights and obligations:

1. It guarantees the public's right to access government records, ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.

2. It requires government agencies and officials to maintain records that provide an accurate accounting of their official activities.

3. It establishes procedures for requesting, examining, and obtaining copies of public records.

4. It outlines exceptions and exemptions for records that may be withheld from public disclosure.

5. It provides legal remedies for individuals who are wrongfully denied access to public records.

6. It authorizes government agencies to charge reasonable fees for copying or reproducing requested records.

7. It balances the public's right to know with privacy protections for sensitive information.

The law applies to all public bodies and officers in Arizona, including state agencies, counties, municipalities, school districts, and other government entities. It ensures that citizens can monitor government activities, participate in the democratic process, and hold public officials accountable. Arizona Legislature

How To Find Public Records in Arizona in 2025

Finding public records in Arizona involves several methods depending on the type of records you're seeking:

1. Direct Agency Requests: Contact the specific agency that maintains the records you need. For example, vital records are maintained by the Arizona Department of Health Services, while property records are typically held by county recorder's offices.

2. Online Access: Many Arizona government agencies provide online portals where you can search and access public records. The Arizona Judicial Branch offers case look-up services, the Secretary of State provides business entity searches, and many counties offer property record searches online.

3. In-Person Visits: You can visit the appropriate government office during regular business hours to inspect records in person. This is particularly useful for older or more detailed records that may not be digitized.

4. Written Requests: Submit a written public records request to the relevant agency. While Arizona law does not require requests to be in writing, a written request creates documentation of your request and helps ensure clarity.

5. Online Request Systems: Many agencies now offer online systems for submitting public records requests. For example, the Arizona Department of Administration provides an online public records request form.

When making a request, be as specific as possible about the records you're seeking, including relevant dates, names, locations, and any identifying information that will help the agency locate the records efficiently. Arizona Department of Administration

Does Arizona Have Free Public Records?

Yes, Arizona has free public records, but with some limitations. Under Arizona law, you have the right to inspect public records at no cost during regular office hours. However, if you want copies of records, agencies may charge reasonable fees to cover the cost of reproduction.

Some specific provisions regarding free access include:

1. Free Inspection: ARS § 39-121 guarantees the right to inspect public records for free during regular business hours.

2. Veterans' Exemption: ARS § 39-122 provides that searches for and copies of public records to be used in claims against the United States shall be furnished without charge to veterans, their guardians, administrators, executors, or their attorneys.

3. Online Access: Many records are available for free through online portals operated by various government agencies.

4. Excessive Requests: If a request is deemed excessive or involves commercial use, agencies may charge additional fees.

5. Electronic Records: Some agencies provide electronic copies of records at no charge or at reduced rates compared to paper copies.

It's worth noting that while inspection is free, practical limitations may exist. For instance, agencies may require appointments for viewing extensive records, and they may charge for staff time needed to redact confidential information from records before they can be inspected. Arizona Revised Statutes

How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records in Arizona?

The cost of obtaining public records in Arizona varies depending on the agency, the type and volume of records requested, and the format in which they are provided. Arizona law allows government agencies to charge "reasonable" fees for copies of public records.

Typical fees you might encounter include:

1. Photocopies: Charges typically range from $0.25 to $0.50 per page for standard black and white copies.

2. Special Formats: Records in special formats such as color copies, large plans, or maps may incur higher fees.

3. Electronic Records: Some agencies charge reduced fees for electronic copies, while others may provide them at no cost.

4. Staff Time: For commercial requests or requests requiring extensive redaction or research, agencies may charge for staff time needed to process the request.

5. Media Costs: If records are provided on media such as CDs, DVDs, or flash drives, agencies may charge for the cost of these materials.

Specific examples include:

• The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission charges $0.25 per page for converting hard copies to electronic copies.
• The Arizona Department of Public Safety charges fees for accident reports and other records based on a set fee schedule.
• County recorder offices typically charge per-page fees for property record copies.

Agencies must provide a breakdown of fees upon request, and some agencies may require payment in advance before processing large or complex requests. Arizona Ombudsman Citizens' Aide

How Long Does It Take to Obtain Public Records in Arizona?

Arizona law does not specify a timeframe within which agencies must provide requested records. However, the law requires that records be "promptly furnished" following a request. In practice, response times can vary significantly based on several factors:

1. Nature and Volume: Simple requests for readily available records may be fulfilled within days, while complex or voluminous requests can take weeks or months.

2. Agency Resources: Some agencies have dedicated staff for handling public records requests, while others may have limited resources, affecting response times.

3. Processing Requirements: Records that require extensive review for confidential information or legal exemptions take longer to process.

4. Request Backlog: High volume of pending requests can cause delays in processing new requests.

Based on information from various Arizona agencies:

• The Arizona Corporation Commission states that public record requests are processed in the order received and may take up to 30 days to fulfill, although response times can vary.
• The Arizona Industrial Commission notes that response times can be shorter or longer than 30 days depending on the complexity of the request.
• The Arizona Department of Public Safety typically processes straightforward records requests within 14 days of report completion.

Recent legislation (HB2593) requires government entities to provide notification within five business days that includes the expected date for fulfilling a public records request. This improvement helps requesters understand when they can expect to receive the requested records. Arizona Industrial Commission

What Records Are Confidential In Arizona?

While Arizona law generally favors public access to government records, there are numerous exemptions and confidentiality provisions that protect certain types of information from disclosure. There are more than 300 Arizona statutes that address the confidentiality of records, plus federal laws and administrative rules that may also restrict access to certain information.

Categories of confidential records in Arizona include:

1. Records Confidential by Statute: These include specific records designated as confidential by Arizona law, such as:

   • Certain health and medical records (ARS § 36-509)
   • Juvenile court records (ARS § 8-208)
   • Adoption records (ARS § 8-120)
   • Certain tax information (ARS § 42-2001)
   • Victim information in criminal cases (ARS § 13-4434)

2. Records Protected by Privacy Interests: Arizona courts have recognized that some records may be withheld if disclosure would invade personal privacy and the privacy interest outweighs the public's right to know.

3. Records Protected by Best Interests of the State: Records may be withheld if disclosure would be detrimental to the best interests of the state, such as:

   • Security-related information
   • Ongoing investigation records
   • Attorney-client privileged communications
   • Trade secrets and proprietary business information

4. University Records Exemptions: ARS § 15-1640 specifically exempts certain university records from disclosure, including:

   • Unpublished research data, manuscripts, and creative works
   • Certain donor information
   • Student records protected by federal law

5. Health Care Records: Patient medical records are generally confidential under both state and federal law.

Agencies must be able to cite a specific statutory exemption or demonstrate how disclosure would violate privacy interests or harm the state's interests when denying access to records. Arizona Attorney General

Who Has the Right To Request Public Records in Arizona

In Arizona, the right to request public records is broadly granted to any person, regardless of citizenship or residence status. The language in ARS § 39-121 is inclusive, stating that public records "shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours."

Key points regarding who can request public records in Arizona:

1. General Public: Any individual, regardless of age, citizenship, or residency, has the right to request public records.

2. Organizations: Corporations, associations, partnerships, and other organizations have the right to request public records.

3. Media Representatives: Journalists and media organizations have the same right to access public records as any other person, with no special privileges or restrictions.

4. Government Agencies: Other government agencies may request public records from a different agency.

5. Incarcerated Individuals: Prisoners retain the right to request public records, although there may be practical limitations on their ability to inspect records in person.

6. Commercial Users: Those requesting records for commercial purposes must declare so and may face different fee structures, but they still have the right to access public records.

Arizona law does not require requesters to:

• Provide identification
• Explain why they want the records
• Complete a specific form (unless the agency has a reasonable policy requiring it)
• Be an Arizona resident

The law treats all requesters equally, regardless of their purpose for seeking the records, except in the case of commercial requests, which may be subject to additional fees. Arizona Ombudsman Citizens' Aide

What Can Be Done With Public Records in Arizona

Once you have obtained public records in Arizona, there are various ways you can use them, subject to certain limitations:

1. Personal Use: You can use public records for personal research, information gathering, or family history research.

2. Legal Proceedings: Public records can be used in legal proceedings, such as evidence in court cases, for property disputes, or in administrative hearings.

3. Business Purposes: Records can be used for business activities such as market research, competitive analysis, or verification of information.

4. Media and Journalism: Journalists can use public records for news reporting, investigative journalism, and informing the public.

5. Academic Research: Researchers can use public records for academic studies, historical research, and data analysis.

6. Civic Engagement: Citizens can use public records to monitor government activities, participate in public discourse, and hold officials accountable.

7. Data Compilation: Public records can be compiled, analyzed, and used to create databases or information products.

However, there are some limitations and considerations:

• Commercial Use: If you request records for commercial purposes, you must declare this intent, and agencies may charge additional fees.

• Privacy Concerns: Even though records are public, using them in ways that violate individuals' privacy rights could potentially lead to legal issues.

• Copyright: Some public records may contain copyrighted material, which may limit reproduction or distribution rights.

• Prohibited Uses: Arizona law prohibits using public records for certain purposes, such as harassment or solicitation of business during a person's incarceration.

The law generally does not restrict how public records can be used once they are legally obtained, but ethical considerations and other laws regarding privacy, defamation, and harassment still apply. Arizona State Library

Key Agencies and Departments for Public Records in Arizona

Several key agencies and departments in Arizona are responsible for maintaining and providing access to different types of public records:

Arizona Secretary of State
1700 W Washington St, 7th Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-4285
Official Website: Arizona Secretary of State

Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records
1901 W Madison St
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Phone: 602-926-3720
Official Website: Arizona State Library

Arizona Department of Public Safety
2222 W Encanto Blvd
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Phone: 602-223-2000
Records Unit: 602-223-2345
Official Website: Arizona Department of Public Safety

Arizona Attorney General's Office
2005 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-542-5025
Public Records: 602-542-4266
Official Website: Arizona Attorney General

Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide
2020 N Central Ave, Suite 570
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-277-7292
Official Website: Arizona Ombudsman

Arizona Department of Health Services
150 N 18th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-1025
Official Website: Arizona Department of Health Services

These agencies each have their own procedures for requesting records, and some offer online access to certain types of records. Arizona Department of Administration

How to Appeal a Denied Public Records Request in Arizona

If your request for public records in Arizona is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process in Arizona is primarily through the court system, though there are also informal options that may resolve the issue more quickly:

1. Informal Resolution:

   • Contact the agency directly to discuss the denial and seek clarification
   • Ask to speak with a supervisor or the agency's public records officer
   • Request a written explanation for the denial, including the specific legal basis

2. Ombudsman Assistance:

   • Contact the Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide office, which can investigate complaints about public records access
   • The Ombudsman can work informally with agencies to resolve disputes without litigation
   • This service is free and confidential

3. Formal Legal Appeal:

   • Under ARS § 39-121.02, any person denied access to public records may appeal through a "special action" in Arizona Superior Court
   • The special action must be filed in the county where the agency or public body is located
   • The appeal must follow the Rules of Procedure for Special Actions

4. Court Process:

   • The court reviews the case to determine if the denial was justified under law
   • The burden is on the government to justify withholding records
   • If the court finds the denial was wrongful, it can order the release of records

5. Potential Remedies:

   • Court-ordered disclosure of the requested records
   • Award of attorney's fees and costs if you substantially prevail
   • Potential damages if the denial was knowingly wrongful

Important considerations:

• There is no administrative appeal process at the state level in Arizona
• The statute of limitations for filing a special action is generally one year from denial
• Courts typically expedite public records cases
• You may want to consult with an attorney experienced in public records law

It's advisable to first try informal resolution methods before proceeding to litigation, as they can often resolve issues more quickly and at less expense. Arizona Revised Statutes

Difference Between Federal and Arizona Public Records

There are several important differences between federal public records laws and Arizona's public records laws:

1. Governing Laws:

   • Federal records are governed by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), enacted in 1966
   • Arizona records are governed by the Arizona Public Records Law, found in Title 39, Chapter 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes

2. Scope of Application:

   • FOIA applies only to federal agencies and departments
   • Arizona's Public Records Law applies to all state and local government entities within Arizona

3. Request Procedures:

   • FOIA has specific procedural requirements for requests
   • Arizona's law is less formal, with no statutory requirement for written requests

4. Response Timeframes:

   • FOIA requires agencies to respond within 20 business days, with possible extensions
   • Arizona law has no specific timeframe but requires "prompt" responses

5. Exemptions:

   • FOIA has nine specific statutory exemptions
   • Arizona has over 300 statutes addressing confidentiality of records, plus court-recognized exemptions for privacy and state interests

6. Fee Structures:

   • FOIA has specific fee categories based on the purpose of the request
   • Arizona allows "reasonable" fees with different structures for commercial and non-commercial requests

7. Appeal Process:

   • FOIA provides for administrative appeals within agencies before court action
   • Arizona provides for direct appeal to the courts through special actions

8. Requester Categories:

   • FOIA has fee waivers for media, educational, and scientific requesters
   • Arizona differentiates primarily between commercial and non-commercial requesters

9. Enforcement:

   • FOIA is overseen by the Office of Government Information Services at the federal level
   • Arizona has no central oversight agency, though the Ombudsman can assist with disputes

10. Proactive Disclosure:

    • FOIA requires certain categories of records to be proactively published
    • Arizona law focuses more on the right to request rather than proactive disclosure requirements

Understanding these differences is important when seeking records from different levels of government. For federal agencies operating in Arizona, FOIA applies to their records rather than state law. Maricopa County

Lookup Public Records in Arizona

Arizona Department of Administration
100 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-1500
Arizona Department of Administration

Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division
1801 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 255-0072
Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division

Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Vital Records
150 N. 18th Avenue, Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 364-1300
Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Vital Records

Arizona Judicial Branch, Arizona Supreme Court
1501 W. Washington, Suite 402, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 452-3300
Arizona Judicial Branch, Arizona Supreme Court

Arizona State Archives (Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records)
1901 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85009
Phone: (602) 926-3720
Arizona State Archives

Arizona State Library
1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 926-3870
Arizona State Library

Arizona Corporation Commission
1200 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-3026
Arizona Corporation Commission

Arizona Department of Commerce
100 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 771-1100
Arizona Department of Commerce

Arizona Department of Economic Security
1789 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-4791
Arizona Department of Economic Security

Arizona Department of Education
1535 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-5393
Arizona Department of Education

Arizona State Land Department
1110 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-4631
Arizona State Land Department

Maricopa County Recorder’s Office
111 S. Third Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 506-3535
Maricopa County Recorder’s Office

Arizona Department of Revenue
1600 W. Monroe Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 255-3381
Arizona Department of Revenue

Arizona State Legislature
1700 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 926-3559
Arizona State Legislature

Arizona Attorney General
2005 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: (602) 542-5025
Arizona Attorney General

Arizona Ombudsman – Citizens’ Aide
3737 N. 7th Street, Suite 209, Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: (602) 277-7292
Arizona Ombudsman – Citizens’ Aide

Arizona Department of Housing
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 280, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 771-1000
Arizona Department of Housing

Maricopa County Superior Court
201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 506-3204
Maricopa County Superior Court

Pima County Recorder’s Office
240 N. Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: (520) 724-4350
Pima County Recorder’s Office

Pima County Superior Court
10 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: (520) 724-3200
Pima County Superior Court

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