What is the cost for copies of public records; what about electronic records?

Absent a specifically identified statute or regulation, an RAO may charge no more than $0.05 per page for single and double-sided black and white paper copies or computer printouts. There is no longer a separate charge for police or fire reports, or for computer printouts.

The Public Records Law and its Regulations apply to all Massachusetts government records, regardless of form, and regardless of the location of the records.

Provision of public records in electronic form is preferred where available. An RAO is not permitted to assess a copying fee for electronic records. The $0.05 fee applies only to paper copies of records.

Show All Answers

1. What is the difference between the federal Freedom of Information Act and the Massachusetts Public Records Law?
2. Who can help me with questions regarding the Public Records Law?
3. What is a “public record”?
4. How do I find the records I seek?
5. Does the Division of Public Records have my records?
6. Does the Public Records Law apply to court, legislative or federal records?
7. What is a Records Access Officer?
8. What is a records custodian?
9. How do I obtain copies of public records?
10. What do I do if my request is denied?
11. May I also go to court to seek public records?
12. My appeal was closed because I did not provide the necessary information. What do I do now?
13. What are the requirements for an RAO response to a public records request?
14. Does my request need to be in writing, and do I need to use a specific form?
15. May I appeal a failure to answer a question?
16. What is the cost for copies of public records; what about electronic records?
17. Is an RAO required to provide a fee estimate?
18. May the RAO charge a fee for search and segregation of records?
19. When must minutes of an open meeting be made available to the public?
20. Does a requester have greater right of access to records if he is the subject of a record?
21. Is a requester required to disclose the intended use of the public record requested?
22. How should an RAO respond to an unclear request?
23. What if a records custodian claims that it is not subject to the Public Records Law?
24. Are RAOs required to forward a request for records not in their possession?