FAQ


What is a public record?

NCGS § 132-1 defines public records, in relevant part, as "all documents...magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records...regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received...in connection with the transaction of public business..."

Durham County Government will ensure that all public records are available for inspection unless specifically exempted by law.


What is the public policy regarding public records?

The NC General Assembly statue NCGS § 132-1(b) states “The public records and public information compiled by the agencies of North Carolina government or its subdivisions are the property of the people. Therefore, it is the policy of this State that the people may obtain copies of their public records and public information free or at minimal cost unless otherwise specifically provided by law.”


Are all records public records?

Many records are public, but some information may be redacted in adherence to the laws of privacy. Durham County Government protects confidential information and adheres to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and NC Public Records Statue. 

 NCGS § 132-1.2 defines "confidential information such as: sensitive public security information, components of personnel files, tax information and social security numbers. In accordance with North Carolina General Statutes Chapter § 132 Public Records Act, Durham County may redact some sections of public records to protect confidentiality.

 

How do I submit a public records request?

Please visit Durham County's Open Public Records web portal to make your request. If this is your first time making a request on this portal please click the following link to watch this video "How to Make a Records Request" .  If you need assistance, please contact the Durham County Office of Public Information at (919)560-0000 or email publicinformationoffice@dconc.gov. Please visit the help page, if you have difficulty using this portal.

 

How long will it take to receive a response?

Durham County responds to all requests for information as quickly as possible. Some requests may take longer than others due to the nature of the request. Requests containing confidential information or documents from multiple departments may experience further delays.

Some records may be immediately available. Please search the document archives to see public records and documents that are readily available. Click here to search the document archives.


How can I check the status of my request?

Once a request has been submitted an auto-generated notification will be sent to the requestor’s email address. You may receive periodic updates via email as the request is processed. If your request is denied in whole or in part, the legal basis for denial will be cited in the response.


If you'd like to ask for an update on your request, you can:

  1. Reply directly to a request notification email to communicate directly with the Durham County employee working on your request. (NOTE: Be sure you are replying to an email specifically about your request and not one of the emails about accessing your account, such as a password reset email).
  2. Log into your account and go directly to your request. Once on the request click the "Envelope" icon in the top right corner to post your message. 

How much will I be charged for my request?

It is the policy of Durham County that a requester shall bear the cost of copying the requested information at a rate of $.10 per page for documents in excess of ten pages. If information is requested in electronic form, requester must supply appropriate media or pay standard rate.

 

How can I learn more about NC Public Records law?

Please click here to view the North Carolina Public Records law in full.