FAQs • Battle Ground, WA • CivicEngage

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How do I request a public record?

Complete the Request for Public Record Form and return it by:

Fax: 360-342-5050
Email: to City Clerk's Office
Mail: 109 SW 1st St., Ste. 221
Battle Ground, WA 98604
In Person: 109 SW 1st St; 2nd floor reception desk

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Public Records

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1. What is a Public Record?

A Pubic Record includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of City business.

2. Are all records available to the public?: No. RCW (Revised Code of Washington) 42.56 contains a list of records that are exempt from disclosure, and there are additional records exempt from disclosure cited in various other chapters of the RCW.

3. What is "inspection" of a public record?: A person is allowed to view public records free-of-charge during normal business hours of the department where the record is held.

4. What is the cost for a copy of a public record?: Please refer to the City's Fee Schedule; charges vary depending on how the records are produced.

5. Must a public records request be fulfilled within 5 days?

No. However, the City must acknowledge receipt of the request within 5 days and provide one of the following responses:

Provide the record (s)
Acknowledge the request and provide a reasonable timeline as to when the record(s) will be available
Provide a link or internet address to the location of the record/document
Seek clarification of document(s) requested and provide a timeline when the record(s) will be available
Deny the request

6. How do I request a public record?

Complete the Request for Public Record Form and return it by:

Fax: 360-342-5050
Email: to City Clerk's Office
Mail: 109 SW 1st St., Ste. 221
Battle Ground, WA 98604
In Person: 109 SW 1st St; 2nd floor reception desk

7. Are public record requests confidential?: No. Once a request has been received, the request itself becomes a public record.

8. May I submit a request anonymously?: The city will need your contact information for staff to to communicate with you regarding your request.

9. Must copies of records be provided at no charge for non-profit organizations or indigent customers?: No. The Public Records Act allows a city to recover a reasonable charge for providing copies of public records.

10. Can I obtain a list of citizens or customers for the purpose of marketing my business?: No. RCW 42.56.070 prohibits the access of lists of individuals for commercial purposes.