FOIA Information

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Division

Bay County uses the FOIA Request Portal to process all requests for records and manage our workflow. Benefits include convenient access to download the records we provide, status tracking, account creation and the ability to communicate with us regarding your request. Additionally, the system allows us to process requests as efficiently as possible. We encourage you to submit requests online via the FOIA Request Portal. Save time, gas, and money choosing the electronic records option!

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.

This form is required when requesting a Motor Vehicle Crash Report (UD-10) within 30 days from the date it was filed with the Sheriff's Office. Please include the signed form with your FOIA request.