Public Records Access in Nevada

Public Records Access in Nevada

Public records access in Nevada is a key part of government transparency and civic engagement. Under state law, most records maintained by state and local government agencies are available for public inspection and copying unless specifically exempted.

Nevada’s public records law applies to everything from meeting minutes and budgets to emails, permits, and court filings—enabling residents, journalists, researchers, and businesses to hold public agencies accountable.

Legal Basis

• The primary law governing public access is **Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 239**, often referred to as the **Nevada Public Records Act (NPRA)**.

• The law declares that:

> *"All public books and public records of a governmental entity must be open at all times during office hours to inspection..."*

• Nevada courts have consistently ruled that the law should be interpreted in favor of access, with a presumption of openness.

What Counts as a Public Record

Public records include—but are not limited to:

• Government meeting agendas and minutes
• Emails and correspondence related to official duties
• Budgets, audits, and financial reports
• Permits, contracts, and procurement records
• Law enforcement reports (with redactions)
• Building codes, ordinances, and zoning documents
• Records of public employees, including names, job titles, and salaries

Exemptions and Limitations

Certain records are exempt or partially exempt from public access, including:

• Personal identifying information (Social Security numbers, home addresses)
• Medical and educational records protected by federal law
• Ongoing criminal investigations
• Proprietary business data submitted for licensing
• Security and infrastructure details

Exemptions must be **narrowly interpreted**, and agencies are required to **cite specific legal authority** when denying access.

How to Request Public Records

To request records, follow these steps:

1. **Identify the agency**: Determine which government department holds the records (e.g., city clerk, police department, school district). 2. **Submit a written request**: Most agencies accept email or online form submissions. You don’t have to give a reason. 3. **Be specific**: Include a date range, record type, and any identifying details to help narrow the search. 4. **Wait for a response**:

  * Agencies must respond **within 5 business days** (not necessarily fulfilling the request, but acknowledging it).
  * If the agency needs more time or is denying the request, they must explain why and cite the legal basis.

Some agencies may charge **reasonable fees** for copies, but electronic inspection is usually free.

Common Request Portals

• **State agencies**: Submit directly to the department’s public information officer (PIO) or records division.
• **Nevada Public Records Portal** (pilot program): Some state agencies offer online submissions.
• **Clark County and Las Vegas**: Both operate their own public records portals.
• **Nevada Judiciary**: Court records access varies; some are online via **Nevada Appellate Courts Case Lookup**.

Appeals and Legal Remedies

If your request is denied or ignored:

• You may submit a complaint to the **Office of the Attorney General**.
• You can also file a **petition in district court** to compel the agency to release the records.
• Courts have awarded attorney fees to requesters when agencies unlawfully withheld records.

Sunshine Laws and Open Meetings

Nevada’s commitment to transparency also includes:

• **Open Meeting Law (NRS 241)** – Requires public notice and access to most government meetings
• **Campaign finance and lobbying disclosures**
• **Budget and audit transparency** at the state and local level