Submit a Public Records Request Online Through JustFOIA

Public Records Request Portal

Manatee County Government is committed to providing prompt access to public records in accordance with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, the Florida Public Records Act. Florida law provides that all state, county, and municipal records are open for inspection and copying unless specifically exempt or confidential by law.

To assist the public and improve the efficiency of records requests, Manatee County offers an online Public Records Request Portal powered by JustFOIA.

Submit a Request Online

You may submit a public records request at any time through the online portal:

JustFOIA Public Records Request Portal
https://mymanatee.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest

The portal allows you to:

• Submit a new public records request online

• Track the status of your request

• Communicate directly with Records Division staff

• Receive responsive records electronically

• View invoices and make payments when applicable

• Maintain a history of your requests

What Information Should I Include?

To help staff locate responsive records, please provide as much detail as possible, including:

• Subject matter of the request

• Date range

• Department involved

• Names of individuals, if known

• Address, parcel number, permit number, or project name, if applicable

The more specific the request, the more efficiently County staff can search for and provide responsive records.

Public Records Fees

Most requests can be fulfilled electronically at little or no cost. However, Florida law allows agencies to charge for copies and may permit a special service charge when a request requires extensive use of information technology resources or clerical or supervisory labor.

If fees apply, you will be notified through the JustFOIA portal before work proceeds.

Alternative Ways to Submit a Request

While online submission through JustFOIA is the preferred method, public records requests may also be submitted:

• By email

• By mail

• By telephone

• In person

Florida law does not require a requester to complete a form or identify themselves to request public records unless specifically required by law.

Need Assistance?

If you need assistance submitting a request or have questions about the public records process, please contact the Manatee County Records Division:

Records & Information Management Division
Email: public.records@mymanatee.org
Phone:(941) 748-4501 Ext. 6888

The Records Division is available to assist requesters and help ensure timely access to public records in accordance with Florida law.