Getting Public Records
N.D.C.C. § 44-04-18 — every record of a public entity is open unless a law says otherwise, and no one may ask why
Except as a law specifically provides, all records of a public entity are open for inspection during reasonable office hours. A request need not be in person or in writing, and the entity may not ask the reason for it or who is asking.
- The entity furnishes one copy on request, and mails it if asked, charging up to twenty-five cents per paper impression.
- A written denial can be taken to the attorney general for an opinion within thirty days.
- A civil action is due within sixty days of learning of the violation, or thirty days after an attorney general's opinion, whichever is later.
- For an intentional or knowing violation, the court may award $1,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater, plus attorney's fees.
Sources for this section (3)
- N.D.C.C. § 44-04-18 — Access to public records - Electronically stored information
- N.D.C.C. § 44-04-21.1 — Administrative review procedure
- N.D.C.C. § 44-04-21.2 — Remedies for violations and enforcement procedure
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed North Dakota attorney.