Freedom of information (FOI) requests

What to check before you make a request, how to make a FOI request, how we will respond.

Make a freedom of information (FOI) request

Before you make an FOI request.

Check information already published (publication scheme)

How to make an FOI request

Your request must be in writing and include:

  • your name
  • your email or postal address
  • a description of the information requested

To make a request online, you must give us your email address.

Start now

You can also write to:

FOI request
Woking Borough Council
Civic Offices
Gloucester Square
Woking
GU21 6YL

Reasons we may refuse your request

We may sometimes refuse your request. 

Examples where this may happen include:

  • because the information is personal or commercially sensitive
  • it would take us 18 hours or more to provide the information

For more information, go to the how to access information from a public authority – Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

Costs

In most cases we will provide information free of charge.

In some instances, we might need to charge:

  • if we need to collate, print and post large amounts of materials
  • for time it takes to respond
  • for information and datasets which are subject to copyright rules

We will let you know if a fee is due before releasing the information. We will only release information once we have received payment.

How we will respond

After you submit your request, we:

  • check that it’s clear to understand and a valid request
  • work with the service area to prepare a written response
  • respond to your request within 20 days – we may lawfully extend the deadline

Use of your personal data

For information, go to freedom of information privacy notice.