Frequently Asked Questions

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

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. 

A person is allowed to view public records free-of-charge during normal business hours of the department where the record is held.

Please refer to the City's Fee Schedule; charges vary depending on how the records are produced.

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

The City Clerk serves as the City's Public Records Officer.  Information to request public records may be found on the City Clerk page of our website at: 

Public Records Request

Additional methods to deliver a request for public records:

• 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

No.  Once a request has been received, the request itself becomes a public record.

The city will need your contact information for staff to to communicate with you regarding your request.

No.  The Public Records Act allows a city to recover a reasonable charge for providing copies of public records.  

No.  RCW 42.56.070 prohibits the access of lists of individuals for commercial purposes.