Your Comprehensive Guide to North Carolina Public Records
North Carolina Public Records
Public records in North Carolina provide citizens with access to government information, promoting transparency and accountability in state governance. These records document official activities, decisions, and transactions conducted by state and local government agencies. The North Carolina Public Records Law establishes the framework for public access to these documents, ensuring that residents can stay informed about governmental operations.
Are North Carolina Records Public?
Yes, most North Carolina government records are public. Under North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1, public records are defined as "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business by any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions."
The law establishes a presumption of openness, meaning that all government records are considered public unless specifically exempted by law. This presumption applies to records created or maintained by state agencies, local governments, and other public entities throughout North Carolina.
What Information Is Included in North Carolina Public Records?
North Carolina public records encompass a vast array of documents and information, including:
- Vital Records: Birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees
- Property Records: Deeds, mortgages, liens, property tax assessments, and land surveys
- Court Records: Civil and criminal case files, court calendars, judgments, and sentencing information
- Business Records: Corporate filings, business licenses, and Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings
- Government Documents: Meeting minutes, budgets, contracts, and expenditure reports
- Licensing Information: Professional licenses, permits, and certifications
- Election Records: Voter registrations, campaign finance reports, and election results
- Criminal Records: Arrest records, criminal histories, and sex offender registrations
- Motor Vehicle Records: Vehicle registrations, driver's licenses, and accident reports
- Environmental Records: Permits, inspections, and compliance reports
These records provide valuable information about government operations, public safety, property ownership, and other matters of public interest. While most of these records are accessible to the public, some may contain confidential information that is redacted or restricted.
What Does the North Carolina Public Records Law Do?
The North Carolina Public Records Law, codified in Chapter 132 of the North Carolina General Statutes, establishes the legal framework for public access to government records. This law serves several important functions:
-
Establishes Right of Access: The law affirms that public records belong to the people and that every person has the right to inspect, examine, and obtain copies of public records.
-
Defines Public Records: It provides a comprehensive definition of what constitutes a public record, encompassing virtually all documents created or received by government agencies in the course of public business.
-
Sets Procedures for Access: The law outlines the process for requesting public records and establishes that agencies must provide access to records "at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision."
-
Limits Fees: It restricts the fees that agencies can charge for providing copies of public records, generally limiting them to the actual cost of reproduction.
-
Creates Enforcement Mechanisms: The law provides for judicial enforcement, allowing individuals to sue in court if they believe they have been wrongfully denied access to public records.
-
Specifies Exemptions: While establishing a presumption of openness, the law acknowledges certain categories of records that are exempt from disclosure due to privacy concerns, security issues, or other statutory protections.
The North Carolina Public Records Law works in conjunction with the Open Meetings Law (G.S. Chapter 143, Article 33C) to promote transparency and accountability in government operations throughout the state.
How To Find Public Records in North Carolina in 2025
Accessing public records in North Carolina can be accomplished through several methods:
Online Access
Many North Carolina public records are available online through agency websites. Key online resources include:
- The North Carolina Digital Collections portal maintained by the State Archives
- The North Carolina Court System for court records
- The North Carolina Secretary of State's website for business filings and UCC records
- County Register of Deeds websites for property records
- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for vital records
In-Person Requests
For records not available online, you can visit the relevant agency in person:
- Identify the agency that maintains the records you seek
- Visit during regular business hours
- Complete any required request forms
- Present identification if required
- Pay any applicable fees
Written Requests
You can also submit written requests for public records:
- Address your request to the custodian of records at the appropriate agency
- Clearly identify the records you're seeking
- Provide your contact information
- Specify your preferred format for receiving the records
- Include payment for any applicable fees
Third-Party Services
Commercial services and professional researchers can assist with obtaining public records, particularly for complex requests or when seeking records from multiple agencies.
Does North Carolina Have Free Public Records?
North Carolina law allows for inspection of public records at no cost. According to G.S. § 132-6(a), "Every custodian of public records shall permit any record in the custodian's custody to be inspected and examined at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision by any person, and shall, as promptly as possible, furnish copies thereof upon payment of any fees as may be prescribed by law."
While inspection is free, agencies may charge reasonable fees for providing copies of records. Some records are also available for free online through various state and local government websites, particularly as North Carolina continues to expand its digital services.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records in North Carolina?
The cost of obtaining public records in North Carolina varies depending on the type of record, the agency providing it, and the format requested. Under G.S. § 132-6.2(b), agencies can charge only the "actual cost" of providing copies of public records, which includes:
- Direct costs of paper, toner, and other supplies
- Postage or delivery charges
- Special service charges for extensive use of information technology resources or extensive clerical or supervisory assistance
Typical fees include:
- Paper copies: $0.05 to $0.25 per page
- Electronic copies: Often provided at minimal or no cost if records are already in electronic format
- Certified copies of vital records: $24 for birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates
- Court records: Vary by county and type of record
- Motor vehicle records: $8-$15 depending on the type of record
Agencies cannot charge for the time spent determining whether records are subject to disclosure or for redacting confidential information. Some agencies may waive fees for small requests or when disclosure serves the public interest.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain Public Records in North Carolina?
North Carolina law requires agencies to respond to public records requests "as promptly as possible." However, the law does not specify a definite timeframe for fulfilling requests. The response time depends on several factors:
- The volume and complexity of the requested records
- Whether the records need to be reviewed for confidential information
- The current workload of the agency
- The format in which the records are stored
- Whether special programming is required to extract the requested information
For routine requests, many agencies respond within 5-10 business days. More complex or voluminous requests may take several weeks or longer. If a request will take significant time to fulfill, agencies should provide an estimated timeframe and may release records in installments as they become available.
If an agency denies a request or fails to respond within a reasonable time, the requester may seek judicial enforcement under G.S. § 132-9.
What Records Are Confidential In North Carolina?
While North Carolina law favors transparency, certain records are exempt from public disclosure. Major categories of confidential records include:
-
Personnel Records: Under G.S. § 160A-168 and G.S. § 126-22, most information in government employee personnel files is confidential, though basic information like name, position, and salary is public.
-
Criminal Investigation Records: Active law enforcement investigations, intelligence information, and certain criminal records are protected under G.S. § 132-1.4.
-
Medical Records: Patient medical records held by public health agencies are confidential under G.S. § 130A-12.
-
Social Services Records: Information about public assistance recipients and child welfare cases is protected under G.S. § 108A-80.
-
Student Records: Educational records are confidential under both federal law (FERPA) and state law (G.S. § 115C-402).
-
Trade Secrets: Proprietary business information submitted to government agencies is protected under G.S. § 132-1.2.
-
Attorney-Client Communications: Legal advice provided to government agencies is privileged under G.S. § 132-1.1.
-
Tax Information: Individual tax returns and certain tax information are confidential under G.S. § 105-259.
-
Certain Vital Records: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records less than 100 years old have restricted access under G.S. § 130A-93.
-
Juvenile Records: Court records for minors are generally confidential under G.S. § 7B-3000.
These exemptions are designed to protect personal privacy, public safety, and other important interests while still maintaining the general principle of government transparency.
Who Has the Right To Request Public Records in North Carolina
Under North Carolina law, "any person" has the right to request public records. G.S. § 132-6(a) states that public records must be made available for inspection and copying by "any person," regardless of:
- Citizenship or residency status
- Age (though minors may face practical limitations)
- Purpose or motivation for seeking the records
- Intended use of the information
The law does not restrict access based on:
- Whether the requester is a North Carolina resident
- The requester's relationship to the subject of the records
- Whether the requester is an individual, organization, or business entity
Government agencies cannot require requesters to:
- Identify themselves
- Explain why they want the records
- Sign a form stating how they will use the information
However, for certain restricted records (such as vital records), requesters may need to demonstrate a legitimate interest or legal right to access the information.
What Can Be Done With Public Records in North Carolina
Public records obtained in North Carolina can be used for various purposes, including:
- Research and Education: Studying government operations, historical events, or academic subjects
- Business Activities: Conducting market research, verifying business partners, or identifying opportunities
- Legal Proceedings: Gathering evidence for litigation, background checks, or due diligence
- Real Estate Transactions: Researching property ownership, liens, or development history
- Genealogical Research: Tracing family history through vital records and other historical documents
- Journalism: Investigating government activities, public spending, or matters of public interest
- Civic Engagement: Monitoring government performance, advocating for policy changes, or participating in public discourse
- Personal Information: Locating individuals, verifying identities, or conducting background checks (subject to privacy limitations)
While public records are generally available for any lawful purpose, users should be aware of potential legal restrictions on certain uses, particularly those involving:
- Commercial solicitation in certain contexts
- Harassment or stalking
- Identity theft or fraud
- Discrimination in housing, employment, or other areas
Key Agencies and Departments for Public Records in North Carolina
North Carolina Department of Administration
116 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 807-2425
North Carolina Department of Administration
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
3101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-3101
(919) 715-7000
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services - Vital Records
1903 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1903
(919) 733-3000
North Carolina Vital Records
North Carolina Department of Public Safety
512 North Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
(919) 733-2126
North Carolina Department of Public Safety
North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts
901 Corporate Center Drive
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 890-1000
North Carolina Judicial Branch
North Carolina State Archives
109 East Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 814-6840
North Carolina State Archives
State Library of North Carolina
109 East Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 807-7400
State Library of North Carolina
North Carolina Secretary of State - Corporations Division
2 South Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 814-5400
North Carolina Secretary of State
North Carolina Department of Commerce
301 North Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 814-4600
North Carolina Department of Commerce
North Carolina Department of Labor
4 West Edenton Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 707-7800
North Carolina Department of Labor
North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
301 North Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(984) 236-2100
North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
217 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 707-8600
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
North Carolina Department of Revenue
501 North Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
(877) 252-3052
North Carolina Department of Revenue
North Carolina General Assembly
16 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 733-4111
North Carolina General Assembly
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1501 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1501
(919) 707-2600
North Carolina Department of Transportation
North Carolina Attorney General's Office
114 West Edenton Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 716-6400
North Carolina Department of Justice
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
3508 Bush Street
Raleigh, NC 27609
(919) 877-5700
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
City of Charlotte - Office of the City Clerk
600 East Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 336-2248
City of Charlotte
City of Raleigh - Office of the City Clerk
222 West Hargett Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 996-3040
City of Raleigh
How to Appeal a Denied Public Records Request in North Carolina
If your request for public records in North Carolina is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process involves the following steps:
-
Informal Resolution: First, contact the records custodian who denied your request to clarify the reasons for denial and determine if there's a way to modify your request to address the agency's concerns.
-
Administrative Appeal: Some agencies have formal administrative appeal procedures. Check the agency's website or contact their public information officer to determine if such a process exists.
-
Contact Agency Leadership: If informal resolution fails, consider escalating your request to the agency head, legal counsel, or public information officer.
-
Seek Assistance from the Attorney General's Office: The North Carolina Attorney General's Office can sometimes provide guidance on public records issues, though they do not formally mediate disputes.
-
File a Lawsuit: Under G.S. § 132-9, you can file a civil action in the superior court of the county where the records are kept. The law provides that:
- The court can issue orders compelling disclosure if records were wrongfully denied
- If you substantially prevail, the court may award attorney's fees
- Cases involving public records access receive priority on court calendars
When filing a lawsuit:
- You must file in the appropriate county superior court
- The burden is on the agency to justify withholding records
- The court will review the case de novo (anew)
- Expedited hearings are available for public records cases
There is no administrative appeals board or ombudsman specifically dedicated to public records disputes in North Carolina, making judicial enforcement the primary formal remedy for denied requests.
Difference Between Federal and North Carolina Public Records
Jurisdiction The federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. § 552) applies exclusively to U.S. federal executive branch agencies and does not extend to state or local records. North Carolina’s Public Records Law (N.C. Gen. Stat. Chapter 132) governs access to records maintained by state agencies, counties, municipalities, and other political subdivisions within the state. FOIA requests cannot be used to obtain North Carolina state or local records, and the North Carolina Public Records Law cannot be used to obtain federal records.
Exemptions FOIA contains nine categories of exemptions, such as those for national security, trade secrets, and personal privacy. North Carolina’s Public Records Law includes its own list of statutory exemptions, such as:
- Records of criminal investigations and intelligence information held by law enforcement agencies
- Personnel records (with limited public information available)
- Certain tax records
- Trade secrets and proprietary business information
- Emergency response plans and sensitive security information
- Records made confidential by other state or federal laws
Right to Request Under FOIA, any person, regardless of residency or citizenship, may submit a federal records request. Similarly, North Carolina allows any person to request state or local public records, with no residency requirement and no need to state a purpose.
Response Timelines FOIA requires a federal agency to respond within 20 business days, with potential extensions. North Carolina’s Public Records Law does not set a fixed number of days for a response; instead, it mandates that records be provided “as promptly as possible” under the circumstances. The absence of a set deadline means response times can vary significantly between agencies.
Appeals and Enforcement FOIA provides an administrative appeal process within the agency, followed by the option to file suit in federal district court if the appeal is denied. North Carolina has no formal administrative appeal mechanism. If a request is denied or ignored, the requester may file a lawsuit in state superior court to compel disclosure. Courts may order agencies to release the records and award attorney’s fees to the requester in certain cases.
Penalties for Non-Compliance FOIA’s penalties are procedural in nature—primarily compelling compliance and awarding attorney’s fees. In North Carolina, agencies acting without substantial justification may be ordered to pay attorney’s fees, and courts can issue injunctions to enforce compliance.
Legal References
- Federal Law: Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) – 5 U.S.C. § 552
- State Law: North Carolina Public Records Law – N.C. Gen. Stat. Chapter 132
- North Carolina Department of Justice – Public Protection Section: 114 W. Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27603. Phone: (919) 716-6400. North Carolina DOJ