Public Records Request

There is an update to Alabama law regarding public records. Effective October 1, 2024, access to public records is a right granted to "Residents" of the State of Alabama. A "Resident" is defined by §36-12-43(b)(3), Code of Alabama, as "An individual who is permanently domiciled in Alabama with an expectation to remain in Alabama as demonstrated by reasonable proof of residency such as, but not limited to, an Alabama driver license or voter registration."

Public records requests should be signed by the requestor certifying that he or she is an Alabama resident having a right to make a request for public records pursuant to Alabama law, and copies of valid identification with proof of permanent residence should be provided.

Here is what you should know when submitting a public records request:

• According to the new Alabama law, access to public records is a right for residents of Alabama.
• There are four areas of criteria that Alabama law requires for a public record request:
  
  • It must be a specific record and not vague, ambiguous, overly broad, or unreasonable in scope.
  • It must be an existing record and not one that has to be created.
  • It must be a public record.
  • It must be within the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office written procedures
• The public records request form has been updated here. This is the only form that will be used for public records requests. Any other form will not be accepted.
• Those seeking public records must complete the form and email it to SORecordsRequest@stclairco.com, mail it or bring it to the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office in person. The address is St. Clair County Sheriff's Office, Attn: Tawney Roberts, 1610 Cogswell Ave, Ste 206, Pell City, AL 35125.
• All requests must be accompanied by proof of Alabama residency. No exceptions. A list of acceptable proof of residency is located here.
• The St. Clair County Sheriff's Office has up to 10 days to acknowledge a proper request.
• After acknowledging receipt of the request, the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office has 15 business days to fulfill or deny the request.

NOTE: Do not remit payment until you have been advised of the fee amount.

You may read more information here.