Freedom of Information Act Requests

How do I get information?

DEW is committed to following both the letter and spirit of the South Carolina’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to ensure that public business is performed in an open and transparent manner.

Requests for information should be sent in writing to DEW’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) at FOIA@dew.sc.gov. No particular form is necessary, but if you would like to use our standard form to assist you with your request, it can be downloaded here.

How long will it take?

DEW will respond in writing about the release of records in a FOIA request within 10 or 20 working days (depending on the age of  documents requested) of receipt of the request. Working days do not include Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays.

If the requested information is available for public disclosure, the OGC will coordinate with the appropriate DEW department to make the records accessible. If the requested information is confidential or has other FOIA exemptions the OGC will notify the requestor in writing that some or all of the records are exempt from disclosure.

What does it cost?

FOIA allows for the collection of fees in order to cover the cost of research, retrieval and reproduction of records. DEW’s Finance Department will create and provide invoices for requestors once the documents have been identified. The full amount of the total cost must be paid prior to the actual production of the request. DEW will transmit documents to the requestor immediately following receipt of payment by DEW.

You may view the schedule of fees here.