The information you are seeking may not require a FOIA request as it may already be accessible on Kane County's website, or by contacting the department directly. Access our Document Library to view records that are available without a FOIA request.

Remember, the Freedom of Information Act is designed to allow you to inspect or receive copies of public records. If you have a question for a representative of Kane County, a FOIA request is not required. Please submit your questions to the appropriate County department or Elected official's office.

Beginning August 1, 2018 several Kane County Departments began using a software the stores previous FOIA requests. If you have a FOIA request that includes one of these offices or departments it is possible that your request may already be available using the software search function. The departments participating with this system include - Development and Community Services, Auditor, Coroner, Environmental and Water Resources, County Board, Finance Department, Human Resources, Information Technology and KaneComm. You can access the software and the search function at this link: https://kanecountyil.nextrequest.com/.

Requests must be submitted in writing. Be as specific as possible when describing the public records you are seeking -- include your name, telephone number, mailing address and e-mail address. A FOIA request form is available on the top left side of this web page for your convenience.

Submit your written request in person, by mail, by fax or e-mail to the appropriate Kane County department. Elected Officials maintain their own FOIA offices, so requests for public records held in those offices should go directly to them.

All written requests shall be responded to within five (5) working days (5 ILCS/140/3) following the date the request is received, except in the instance when the request is for commercial purposes (within 21 working days). The five day count begins the day after receipt of the request. The requestor will be notified of a five day extension (working days) if the files are voluminous, at different locations, or if other reasons make it  impossible to assemble and mail the request out within the normal five day period.

For black and white, letter or legal sized copies, the first 50 pages are free, unless a different fee is otherwise fixed  by statute. Any additional pages beyond 50 will be charged at .15 cents per copy. Color and oversized copies will be charged the actual cost of copying.

You are permitted to request a waiver of copying fees associated with this request. Please include a specific explanation as to why your request for information is in the public interest (not simply your personal interest) and merits a fee waiver.

For more information regarding the Freedom of Information Act, please visit the Illinois Attorney General's website.