Missouri Sunshine Law
How to Request Body Camera Footage in Missouri
You can ask a Missouri police department for body-worn camera and dash camera video under the Missouri Sunshine Law (RSMo Chapter 610). Response timeline: Each request must be acted on as soon as possible and no later than the end of the 3rd business day after it is received; if more time is needed, the custodian must explain why and give the earliest date the records will be available. Denials must cite the specific law (RSMo 610.023.3 and .4). Police incident and arrest reports are open records, while investigative reports, including most body camera footage, stay closed until the investigation is inactive (RSMo 610.100). A person involved in an incident can request the complete, unedited incident report (RSMo 610.100.4).. Be as specific as you can about the date, place, and people involved, and ask for electronic copies.
Last reviewed October 8, 2026. Statute: RSMo Chapter 610.
Write your Missouri request
Search for the department to start your letter. CopFax is not a law firm and this is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I get body camera footage from a Missouri police department?
- You can request body-worn camera and dash camera video under the Missouri Sunshine Law (RSMo Chapter 610). Some records may be withheld or redacted under exemptions in the law, for example for open investigations or privacy.
- What should I include in a request for body camera footage?
- Name the department, describe the records as precisely as you can (date, time, location, officer name or badge number, case number), ask for electronic copies, and ask for a fee estimate first.
- How long will it take?
- The response timeline under the Missouri Sunshine Law (RSMo Chapter 610) is: Each request must be acted on as soon as possible and no later than the end of the 3rd business day after it is received; if more time is needed, the custodian must explain why and give the earliest date the records will be available. Denials must cite the specific law (RSMo 610.023.3 and .4). Police incident and arrest reports are open records, while investigative reports, including most body camera footage, stay closed until the investigation is inactive (RSMo 610.100). A person involved in an incident can request the complete, unedited incident report (RSMo 610.100.4).. Large video requests can take longer if the agency needs to review or redact footage.