Your Comprehensive Guide to Kentucky Public Records
Kentucky Public Records
Kentucky public records are any documents, books, photographs, tapes, recordings, or other material created, received, maintained, or held by public agencies in Kentucky in connection with official business. Access to these records is governed by the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870–61.884), which requires state and local government bodies to provide citizens with broad access to government information, subject to certain exceptions for confidentiality and security.
Are Kentucky Records Public?
Yes, under the Kentucky Open Records Act, most records generated or received by public agencies are public and available for inspection or copying. There are exceptions for records specifically exempted by law, such as certain personnel, law enforcement, and personal privacy records. Kentucky’s policy is that “free and open examination of public records is in the public interest.”
What Information Is Included in Kentucky Public Records?
Kentucky public records encompass:
- Court records (criminal, civil, probate, and family)
- Property and land deeds, plats, and tax assessments
- Business registrations and filings
- Marriage, birth, and death certificates
- Agendas, minutes, and resolutions from public meetings
- Budgets, contracts, audits, and financial statements
- Police reports, arrest logs, and criminal records
- State employee rosters and salary data
- Legislative records, bills, and orders
Information that is confidential by statute (e.g., certain medical, student, juvenile, or law enforcement records) is excluded.
What Does the Kentucky Public Records Law Do?
The Kentucky Open Records Act:
- Guarantees broad access to government records, except those exempted by statute
- Requires agencies to respond to requests within five business days
- Mandates that agencies maintain records so they are accessible for inspection
- Limits fees to the actual cost of duplication, unless otherwise set by law
- Allows for appeal to the Attorney General or court if a request is denied
Public bodies are not required to create new records or compile information in a format that does not already exist.
How To Find Public Records in Kentucky in 2025
To obtain public records, submit a written request (including email) to the records custodian at the relevant agency. Your request should describe the records sought and may use the Attorney General’s standardized request form. Many records—such as court dockets, property tax rolls, and business filings—are searchable online, but some require a formal request.
Kentucky Department of Libraries and Archives (KDLA)
300 Coffee Tree Road, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 564-8300
Kentucky Department of Libraries and Archives
Kentucky Department of Revenue
501 High Street, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 564-4581
Department of Revenue
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing
200 Mero Street, Frankfort, KY 40622
Phone: (502) 564-1257
Motor Vehicle Licensing
Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics
275 E. Main Street, 1E-A, Frankfort, KY 40621
Phone: (502) 564-4212
Vital Statistics
Kentucky State Police, Criminal Records and Identification Branch
1266 Louisville Road, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 227-8700
Criminal Records
Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC)
1001 Vandalay Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 573-2350
Kentucky Court of Justice
Kentucky Secretary of State, Business Filings
700 Capital Avenue, Suite 152, Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 564-3490
Business Filings
Does Kentucky Have Free Public Records?
Inspection of public records at agency offices is generally free. Many records, such as court case information or legislative documents, are available online at no cost. However, agencies may charge for copies, certified documents, or staff time spent on requests requiring extensive search or redaction.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records in Kentucky?
Agencies may only charge the actual cost of reproduction—for example, $0.10–$0.50 per page for basic copies, as allowed by law (Attorney General Guidance). Certified copies, electronic records, and special media (e.g., CDs) may cost more. Agencies must notify you of the expected cost in advance and cannot charge for simply inspecting records.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain Public Records in Kentucky?
By law, agencies must respond to records requests within five business days (excluding weekends and holidays) after receiving the request (KRS 61.872(5)). If additional time is needed, agencies must provide a written explanation. Complex or voluminous requests may require longer, but agencies must communicate estimated completion dates.
What Records Are Confidential In Kentucky?
Exemptions include, but are not limited to:
- Personal medical and student education records
- Ongoing law enforcement and criminal investigative files
- Preliminary drafts and notes
- Juvenile records
- Certain financial and trade secret data
- Security and infrastructure details
Agencies must cite the legal basis for any denial or redaction (KRS 61.878).
Who Has the Right To Request Public Records in Kentucky
Only residents of Kentucky have an enforceable right to inspect and copy public records (KRS 61.872), though some agencies may honor requests from non-residents as a courtesy. Identification or proof of residency may be required.
What Can Be Done With Public Records in Kentucky
Kentucky public records may be used for:
- Legal and regulatory research
- Investigative journalism and public oversight
- Academic, genealogical, and historical research
- Business and real estate transactions
- Due diligence and background checks
Using records for unlawful purposes—such as harassment or fraud—is strictly prohibited.
How to Appeal a Denied Public Records Request in Kentucky
If a request is denied, you have the right to:
- Request the agency provide a written explanation for the denial, citing the specific statutory exemption.
- File an appeal with the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General within 30 days.
- If unsatisfied, bring a lawsuit in circuit court to compel disclosure.
The Attorney General will issue a binding opinion unless overturned by the courts.
Difference Between Federal and Kentucky Public Records
Kentucky’s Open Records Act governs only state and local agencies; federal records are covered by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Key differences:
- Jurisdiction: FOIA applies to federal agencies; Kentucky’s Act applies to state/local agencies.
- Eligibility: FOIA is open to any person; Kentucky restricts to residents.
- Exemptions: Each law has its own list of statutory exemptions.
For federal records, visit FOIA.gov. For Kentucky state and local records, use the agencies and resources above.