1 Overview
Please be aware that during the COVID-19 outbreak we are unable to prioritise requests for information due to resources being fully committed to the emergency response. Response timescales may be extended during this period and we would also ask you please to consider whether you can make your request at a later date in order to reduce the pressures on council officers. Thank you for your understanding.
Public authorities have a legal obligation to provide information through an approved publication scheme and in response to requests.
A guide to freedom of information requests is available on GOV.UK.
2 View archived FOI/EIR requests
We recommend that before you make a new request, you access previous Freedom of Information (FOI) or Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) requests and responses through our:
Our data store is where data owners from within the County Council release their data and make it available for anyone to use. It includes data about West Sussex, the County Council and its services.
If you need to make a request please use our online system. By using the system you help us manage our customer enquiries in a more efficient way.
3 Submit an FOI or EIR request
If you cannot find the information you require in our disclosure log or our data store you can submit an online Freedom of Information (FOI) request or Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) request using the link below.
Submit a request online (external link)Alternatively, write to us by post; the FOI Act states that requests must be made in writing.
4 Fees and charges
In some cases there will be a cost involved for providing information for a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. For example, we may charge for things like photocopying, translation services or postage. Costs are outlined below.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| A4 or A5 size, black and white | £0.10 per sheet |
| Larger sizes, colour prints, maps and acetates | £1.00 per sheet |
| Transcription services | £1.50 per minute |
| Translating information into other languages | Price on application |
| Converting to other formats | Price on application |
| Special delivery/courier | Price on application |
We will advise you of any charges and ask that they are paid before we proceed with your request.
5 Time to respond to FOI requests
We will respond to your request as soon as possible, and within 20 working days.
We may need to ask you for more details before progressing your enquiry. This will ensure that we supply the correct information to you.