Getting Public Records
N.J.S.A. 47:1A-5 — an answer within seven business days, or it counts as a denial
In New Jersey, it is the stated policy that government records be readily accessible to the public, with certain exceptions, and that limits on access be construed in favor of the public's right of access.
Seven business days. A custodian grants or denies a request as soon as possible and no later than seven business days after receiving it, or 14 business days for a commercial purpose. A failure to respond in time counts as a denial.
Budgets, bills, vouchers, contracts and public employee salary and overtime information are ordinarily available immediately, except documents over 24 months old.
A requester who is denied may, within 45 days, sue in Superior Court or file a complaint with the Government Records Council instead. The agency has the burden of proving the denial was authorized, and a requester who prevails may be entitled to a reasonable attorney's fee.
Sources for this section (3)
- N.J.S.A. 47:1A-5 — Inspection and copies of public records
- N.J.S.A. 47:1A-6 — Challenging a denial of access
- N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 — Open public records: legislative findings
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed New Jersey attorney.