File a Public Records Request

How do I make a public record request?

Washington law requires state and local agencies to make public records available to the public. The law, the Washington State Public Records Act RCW 42.56, supports the public’s right to be informed about what their government is doing.

The Act also lists certain public records that do not have to be disclosed. These exemptions are intended to prevent unreasonable invasions of personal privacy or the use of public records for personal or commercial gain.

The Act also requires that the public records requested are “identifiable.” Your public records disclosure request must include a reasonable description that would allow a City of Yakima employee to locate the records. A general question is not a public disclosure request.

Here’s How To Request A Public Record From the City of Yakima:

Visit https://yakimawa.nextrequest.com/ and fill choose the “Request” option in the middle of the page.

Ordinance No. 2018-027 public record fee

Office Hours:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday

Washington State Office of the Attorney General

• Information guide on Obtaining Public Records

Additional Links:

• City Council meeting minutes
• City of Yakima Municipal Code
• Records Retention Schedules
• Birth & Death Records (Yakima County)
• Marriage Licenses (Yakima County)

Additional Public Disclosure Resources:

• Washington Coalition for Open Government
• Open Meetings Act Information and Resources
• Washington State Auditor’s Office
• Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington