FOIA Requests

It is the policy of Livingston County that all people* are entitled to full and complete information about the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent them as public officials and employees. The people shall be informed so they can fully participate in the democratic process. The County will comply with State law in all respects and to respond to FOIA requests in a consistent, fair and even-handed manner regardless of who makes such a request.

The County acknowledges that it has a legal obligation to disclose all nonexempt public records in its possession pursuant to a FOIA request. Sometimes it is necessary to invoke exemptions identified under FOIA to ensure effective operation of government and protect the privacy of individuals. We will protect the public’s interest in disclosure, while balancing the requirement to withhold or redact portions of certain records.

*Consistent with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), incarcerated individuals are excluded.

Effective December 28, 2018, a request from an individual* must include the requesting person’s complete name, address and contact information. If the request is made by a person other than an individual, the complete name, address and contact information of the person’s agent must be included. Any address provided must be written in compliance with United States Postal Service addressing standards. Contact information must include a valid telephone number or email address. To learn more, visit http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-act-442-of-1976.

*Except those who qualify as indigent under section 4(2)(a), MCL 15.234(2)(a)

FOIA Forms & Procedures