June 1, 2026 [recipient name] [recipient address] Re: Public Records Request Dear FOIA Officer: Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. § 552) and/or applicable state public records law, I request copies of the following records: [records sought] Facts / context: [facts] Requested resolution: [desired outcome] I request a fee waiver as this request is in the public interest. If fees will exceed $25, please contact me before processing. Please respond within the statutory timeframe (typically 20 business days). Sincerely, [user full name] [user address]
Open Records · Illinois
Need to request official records from a Illinois city hall / municipal government?
Generate a formal Public Information Request to compel the agency to release the files.
Government entities operate on public funds, and their records belong to the public. If you need permit records, council member communications, code enforcement files, or municipal spending records, you must submit a structured petition. Use our self-help software to format a professional Open Records Request that starts the agency's mandatory compliance clock under 5 ILCS 140. Typical records include building permits, code enforcement files, council member emails, city contracts, RFP responses, and inspection records.
Your rights under 5 ILCS 140
Governing statute
Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140)
Illinois FOIA grants the Public Access Counselor authority to issue binding determinations on disputed requests.
Strict deadline rule
5 business days, extendable by 5 additional days for limited reasons.
Cost protection floor
First 50 pages of black-and-white letter or legal-sized copies must be provided free of charge.
Typical records
Building permits, code enforcement files, council member emails, city contracts, RFP responses, and inspection records.
Make your request count
Identify the property address (if applicable), the relevant council district, the project or permit number, and the time window.
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✓ Cites 5 U.S.C. § 552 — 20-day federal response window
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