georgia public records overview for citizens and businesses

Understanding access under the Open Records Act

The Georgia Open Records Act presumes government records are open, covering state and local agencies, boards, and authorities. You don’t need a reason to ask, and agencies must respond within three business days, even if only to give a timeline or location for inspection.

How to request and what to expect

Submit a clear written request describing the records, preferred format, and date range. Reasonable fees may include search, retrieval, and copying; electronic delivery can reduce costs. Exemptions protect privacy and security, including Social Security numbers, medical and student files, ongoing investigations, and driver data under DPPA.

• Pros: broad access, fast statutory response, and searchable portals like the GSCCCA for deeds and the GBI’s Georgia Felon Search for criminal history.
• Cons: redactions, fees for extensive searches, and delays when records are dispersed across agencies.

Practical tips: be specific, ask for existing reports instead of 'any and all,' and request electronic copies. For courts, check the clerk or statewide indexes; for health and vital records, start with the Department of Public Health.