Request public records in Austin

Short answer

Texas public information requests go to the government body that holds the records, in writing. The City of Austin takes them through its public records portal. Narrow the date range and name the record type to keep response time and cost down.

Who this is for

Anyone who needs city emails, police records, 311 histories, contracts, or other public documents from an Austin-area agency.

The steps, in order

1. Name the exact record: type, date range, and the department likely to hold it.
2. Submit through the holding body's portal or email; for the City of Austin, use the public records portal.
3. Keep the confirmation number; the 10-business-day clock runs from receipt.
4. If the agency asks to narrow or clarify, respond fast to keep the request moving.
5. If records are withheld, the ruling request goes to the Texas Attorney General.

Have this ready

• A description of the record
• The date range
• The department or office that likely holds it

Common mistakes to avoid

• Asking for everything a department has; broad requests get expensive and slow.
• Sending the request to the wrong body; each agency answers only for its own records.

Common questions

How long does an Austin public records request take?

The agency must respond promptly and usually within 10 business days to say it will release the records or ask the Attorney General about withholding. Large requests take longer.

Do public records requests cost money?

Inspection is often free. Copies and large compilations can carry charges set by state rules, and the agency must tell you the estimate before charging.

Official source

• City of Austin public records

Checked August 26, 2026. Recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

Related

• How to request Austin public records