About FOIA Requests
Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Virginia residents have the right to inspect or receive copies of public records, or both. Residents have the right to request that any charges for the requested records be estimated in advance.

How to Make a FOIA Request
This online form is preferred but not required. You may also request records by contacting the City Clerk (email, 703-248-5146 (TTY 711)).

Timing
In accordance with the Act, the timing for response begins the day after receipt of the request, allowing for five (5) business days to complete the search. In the event the search will require more time, the Act provides for an additional seven (7) days.

Charges
Pursuant to Virginia Code §2.2-3704 (H) and our established practices, the cost of making copies is ($0.15) per b/w copy and ($0.25) per color copy; and the hourly rate for staff to search for records and to make copies is $25/hour. Copies made by an outside vendor, such as Kinkos, are likely to cost more. Oversized copies may cost $3.50 per page, particularly if they are in color. Additionally, if the cost of producing records is likely to exceed $200, you will be requested to make a deposit not to exceed the amount of the advance determination. The deposit shall be credited toward the final cost of supplying the requested records.

In addition to charges for staff time and for copying, charges may be incurred for retrieving records from off-site storage. If electronic records are no longer available, there may be an additional charge for retrieving them through our IT contractor, if you still desire them.

Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council
The Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council is available to answer any general questions you may have about FOIA (804-225-3056 or 1-866-448-4100).

You can also contact the City of Falls Church's Freedom of Information Coordiantor via email or 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).