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Use Chesterfield’s Public Records Request Portal to submit and track Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, download requested records and browse frequently asked questions.
The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Section 2.2-3700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, ensures that Virginia residents and members of the media have access to records in the custody of public bodies, public officials and public employees.
A public record is defined as any writing or recording, regardless of whether it is a paper record, an electronic file, an audio or video recording, or any other format of a record, that is prepared, owned by, or in the possession of a public body or its officers, employees or agents in the transaction of public business. All public records are presumed to be open, however, some may be withheld if specific statutory exemptions or exclusions apply.
Rights and Responsibilities
Citizens of Virginia and members of the media have the right to request and inspect, or request and receive copies of, public records, and additional, related rights established by the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Chesterfield County must respond to your request within a set period and maintain other responsibilities in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA). Learn more details about your rights and the county’s responsibilities under VFOIA (PDF).