Open Records Requests

Requests for Public Information & Documents under the Iowa Open Records Law & the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

Story County is committed to an open and transparent government. Story County adheres to the Iowa Open Records Act and Federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). It is the policy of Story County to allow the public easy and expedited access to all records that are covered in the Open Records Act of Iowa and the FOIA.

An open records request form is provided for your convenience (PDF). (This form is encouraged but optional and not required when making a request). Any written requests using this form in turn become available for disclosure under the open records law. Click here to view the full Open Records Policy and Procedure (PDF).

All requests will be processed and fulfilled in punctual fashion in accordance with the law.

Most records requests can be fulfilled immediately, but some records will require additional review and research. All requests that necessitate additional research and review will receive a reply within ten (10) business days. Iowa Code allows for twenty (20) calendar days of delay to determine if a record is confidential.

State law permits certain records classified as confidential to be considered exempt from the public records requests. Confidential records include but are not limited to medical records, employee-related files, documents concerning litigation or claims, and names or addresses of complainants. Confidential records may be withheld, and confidential information within an otherwise open record may be redacted prior to a record’s release for public examination and copying.

Requests (whether using the provided form or not) may be directed at any employee in any office. Requests may be made in person, over the phone or via e-mail. All requests may be made without identification, reason or motive for the request.

All requests will receive a written response. 

The public is invited to make requests to Story County’s public records liaison:

Public Information Request
900 6th St, Nevada IA 50201
c/o Sandra King
Ph. 515-382-7243, Fax 515-382-7206
E-Mail: Sandra King

About Iowa Open Records and Open Meetings Laws

  • The Iowa Open Records Law is a series of laws designed to guarantee that the public has access to public records of government bodies at all levels in Iowa. The law was first enacted in 1967.
  • The Iowa Open Meetings Law legislates the methods by which public meetings are conducted.
  • FOIA refers to the federal act

Additional Resources