FAQS

  1. Is specific language required for a public records request? No specific language is required to make a request for public records, although the request should be made with such specificity and sufficient clarity to all in order for the office to identify, retrieve, and review the records requested.  
  2. Is there a cost for copies? The cost of copies is 5 cents a page for requests over 20 pages. If copies are placed on a flash drive, the cost of the copies is the cost of the flash drive. There is no charge for email copies or in-person inspection. You may be charged for postage or any other delivery cost. Payment may be required prior to processing the request.  
  3. Is there a cost for the preparation of video records for production or inspection from the Berea Police Department and the Berea Fire Department? Yes, pursuant to the passage of Ohio HB 315, effective 4/3/2025, the City of Berea has updated its public records policy to include a video record request fee for the actual cost of preparing a video record for production or inspection. Fees for processing a video record request shall include the hourly rate for the personnel involved, with a max charge of $75.00 an hour. The total fee for video redaction, copying, processing, and any other associated tasks shall be capped at $750.00. The office will provide an estimate of the actual cost or the required deposit within five business days of receiving the request. Payment will need to be received prior to the start of any preparation on the video record for production.
  4. How long will it take to process my public records request? Ohio law permits public entities a reasonable period of time to process and respond to records requests, instead of a specified time period (certain number of days, weeks). Reasonableness factors include the size of the request, the scope of the request, the ability to gather records from a single or multiple source and/or location, the need for legal review and redactions, among many other factors. There is no fixed time requirement within which to respond, so long as that time is reasonable under the law.
  5. Do I have to provide my name when I make a request? No. Under Ohio law, requests can be anonymous. We just ask that you provide us with a way to contact you or someone else to provide a response to your request.
  6. Do I have to provide the reason for my request? No. Under the Ohio Public Records Act, you are not required to specify the reason for the request.