Public records requests, also known as Freedom of Information Act or FOIA requests, may be initiated by completing the Public Record Request Form available online at https://vestaviahillsal.portal.opengov.com/categories/1085/record-types/6495. For more information regarding a public records request or if you are unable to use the online services portal, contact the City Clerk’s office – email or 205.978.0131.
Pursuant to §36-12-40, Code of Alabama, 1975 (Alabama Act No. 2024-278), “Every resident has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of this state, except as otherwise expressly provided by statute.” This makes public records available to Alabama residents, subject to exceptions specified by law. These exceptions generally prevent the disclosure of privileged or otherwise protected information and communications, including that which could potentially compromise the security of state facilities, systems or software. (https://www.sos.alabama.gov/public-records-request). In January 2023, Gov. Kay Ivey published Executive Order No. 734 which established a policy for state government entities to process public records.
Ordinance Number 3179, adopted and approved by the Vestavia Hills City Council, established a public record policy for the City of Vestavia Hills. Please review this Ordinance carefully to ascertain what is available as a public record and the cost, if any, of obtaining that record.
Submitting a Request: Those wishing to obtain copies of public records must complete a Public Record Request Form available online at https://vestaviahillsal.portal.opengov.com/categories/1085/record-types/6495. Physical copies and/or a time intensive request may result in reasonable fees. An estimate of these fees will be quoted prior to processing the request and must be approved by the requestor. A deposit may be required and full payment is due prior to delivery of records. The City will attempt to provide electronic records in the format desired, however, software platforms may limit the formatting so the desired formatting may not be available for certain records. Further, the State of Alabama Records Disposition Schedule determines the retention of public records, so some older information may or may not be available. If you are unable to utilize the online portal, click HERE to download a request for public records; return the completed form to the office of the City Clerk via email or mail/hand deliver to the Office of the City Clerk, City of Vestavia Hills, 1032 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216.
NOTICE TO NEWS MEDIA: Media representatives, including those with a deadline, should contact Assistant City Manager Cinnamon McCulley – email or 205.978.0143. Accommodation of a deadline schedule will be attempted to the extent that current workload will permit. Fees and requirements for public records related to a media inquiry are not waived.
EXCEPTIONS: Accident, incident, police reports are only available by contacting the Vestavia Hills Police Department. They are NOT available through this portal.
