Public Record Requests

The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County believes that making public records easily accessible is an important part of keeping our operations transparent to the community we serve.

What are public records?

Florida Statutes Chapter 119 defines "public records" to mean all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software, or other material, regardless of the physical form, characteristics, or means of transmission, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business by any [public] agency.

Chapter 119 provides that public records must be open to inspection by any person with the exception of those records designated exempt as detailed in Chapter 119 and other state statutes.

What happens after I submit a public records request?

If the SWA determines that a special service charge will be applied for extensive use of technology resources, clerical, and/or supervisory assistance, a written estimate of charges will be provided to the requestor. Receipt of a deposit will also be required prior to compiling such records.