Public records

Public records in Kentucky

Last reviewed October 7, 2026. Statute: KRS 61.870 to 61.884.

Residents only: Kentucky only grants public records rights to its residents. Include the residency statement below or the agency may legally refuse your request.

Kentucky limits open records requests to residents. Include a signed statement that you are a resident of the Commonwealth, or the agency can deny the request.

Public records law in Kentucky

Law: Kentucky Open Records Act
Citation: KRS 61.870 to 61.884
Response deadline: The agency must respond within 5 business days (KRS 61.880(1)). IMPORTANT: since June 29, 2021, only Kentucky residents (or businesses, property owners and news organizations in Kentucky) may request records, and the request must include a statement that you are a Kentucky resident (KRS 61.870(10), 61.872(2)).

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Police departments and incidents in Kentucky