As set forth in the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), it is the policy of Bay County that all persons, except those incarcerated, are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent them as public officials and employees. Consistent with FOIA, records that are exempt from disclosure by state law will not be provided. The FOIA does not require governmental bodies to create news records or answer questions and therefore a request must only be for records or information already in existence. 

The cost for records is based on the actual time spent on each request. These fees are governed by the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. We are unable to provide an estimate over the phone. 

To request a copy of a record, you must submit a written request to our office. This may be submitted using the FOIA Request Portal, via email, regular mail, or in person.

You may learn more about Bay County's FOIA policy by clicking on the FOIA Procedures and Guidelines or FOIA Summary links below. Printed copies of the FOIA Procedures and Guidelines and FOIA Summary are available in the County Executive's Office, Bay County Building, 515 Center Avenue, Suite 401, Bay City, Michigan.