Washington — Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56)
5 business days to acknowledge; immediate production or timeline providedThe Washington Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56)
In Washington, government records are governed by the Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56). This law establishes that public records — defined as any document, recording, or data created or received by a government agency in the course of public business — are presumed to be open for inspection by the public unless a specific statutory exemption applies.
The law covers state agencies, county governments, city and municipal governments, school districts, public universities, and other public bodies. Federal agencies are governed separately by the federal Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. § 552) — see our Federal FOIA Guide.
Response Deadline
Under the Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56), agencies in Washington must respond to a public records request within 5 business days to acknowledge; immediate production or timeline provided. This is the deadline for the agency's response — meaning they must acknowledge your request and either provide the records, estimate when they will be provided, or explain why records are being withheld. Complex requests may take longer to fully fulfill even after an initial response.
Fee Rules
Fee waivers not required; charges limited to actual cost. Washington agencies may charge for the actual cost of searching, reviewing, and copying records. Before producing records, agencies should inform you of any estimated fees. If the estimated cost is too high, you can narrow your request, negotiate, or request a fee waiver.
Use our Fee Waiver Language Builder to generate the exact language Washington requests should include to seek a waiver.
How to Submit a Request in Washington
- Identify the right agency — Requests must go to the specific agency that holds the records you want. There is no central Washington records clearinghouse.
- Write your request — Be specific: describe the records clearly, include relevant dates, and cite the Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56). Use our Letter Generator to create a properly formatted request.
- Submit to the records custodian — Most agencies accept requests by email, online portal, or certified mail. Check the agency's official website for their preferred method.
- Track your deadline — Note the date you submitted and count forward 5 business days to acknowledge; immediate production or timeline provided. If no response by then, follow up in writing.
Common Exemptions in Washington
The Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56) identifies records that may be withheld. Common exemptions include:
- Records related to ongoing criminal investigations
- Personnel files and personal privacy information
- Attorney-client communications and legal strategy
- Trade secrets and proprietary business information
- Records protected by federal law (HIPAA, FERPA, etc.)
- Records relating to security systems and infrastructure
When an agency withholds records, they must cite the specific statutory provision. A vague claim of "confidentiality" is not sufficient. If you believe records have been improperly withheld, you have the right to appeal.
Appeals Process in Washington
Appeal body: No central body — Superior Court; AG issues model rules
If your request is denied or you receive an inadequate response, you can file an appeal. See our complete Public Records Appeal Guide for step-by-step instructions, including the specific language to use in your appeal letter.