Open records requests in Arizona

How the Arizona Public Records Law works

Arizona's Public Records Law (A.R.S. § 39-121) is among the most expansive in the country. Public records "shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours," with no residency requirement and no formal written request mandate. The law covers all state and local government bodies, including courts, school districts, and law enforcement agencies. Courts have interpreted the law to require a "promptly" response, and agencies that unreasonably delay may face judicial sanctions including attorney's fees.

Fees may be charged for reproduction but not for inspection. The law explicitly requires agencies to provide access in a way that is not unnecessarily burdensome. Common exemptions include personnel records, ongoing investigations, and records protected by privacy interests. Appeals go to superior court, and successful requesters may recover attorney's fees, making Arizona's enforcement particularly favorable to requesters.