New Hampshire

Definition of Public Record

Public records are any information created, accepted, or obtained by, or on behalf of, any public body. ¹

Exemptions to Public Records

Exempt in records: Investigative files; parole and pardon board records; student records; and certain commercial/financial information. ²

Who Can Make The Request?

The New Hampshire Right to Know Law indicates that all “citizens” have a right to access New Hampshire’s records. However, the law does not specify whether it is citizens of New Hampshire or the United States. ³

Response Timeframe

5 days. ⁴

Information on Fees

Only reproduction costs can be charged. ⁵

Enforcement Mechanisms

Through the Attorney General “any person aggrieved by a violation of this chapter may petition the superior court for injunctive relief.” ⁶

Attorney Fees

Yes, you can win attorney’s fees.

Do You Want to Make a Public Records Request?

The public records process begins with a public records request. Our guide outlines best practices for drafting well-defined requests for public information.

Download our Citizen’s Guide to Public Records Requests

Download Our Public Records Request Template

Questions? Contact the Goldwater Institute.

If you have any questions regarding this guide or your rights to public information, please contact the Goldwater Institute at info@goldwaterinstitute.org to determine if the Institute can help you access information necessary to hold your government accountable.