FAQs

What is the Tennessee Public Records Act (TPRA)?

The Tennessee Public Records Act (TPRA) grants Tennessee citizens the right to access open public records that exist at the time of the request. The TPRA does not require records custodians to compile information or create or recreate records that do not exist.

What types of records are accessible to the public?

The TPRA allows Tennessee citizens to view government public records that are connected to official business unless otherwise provided by state law. 

Can I request surveillance video of the Nashville Airport?

Yes, but surveillance video is confidential under the TPRA and will only be released by order of the court.

What kind of information do I need to provide in my public records request?

Under the TPRA, record requests must be sufficiently detailed to enable a governmental entity to identify the specific records sought. As such, your record request must provide enough detail to enable the records custodian responding to the request to identify the specific records you are seeking. The records request should include, but not be limited to, (1) type of record requested; (2) timeframe or dates for the records sought; and (3) subject matter or key words related to the records.

Can I make a request to "inspect" a public record?

Yes. A public records request can be for either a request to inspect a record or a request in writing to be provided with a copy/duplicate of a record.

Is there a cost associated with requesting a copy of a public record?

Yes. If costs for staff time and/or copies are assessed, the requestor has the right to receive an estimate.

What documents are required when I make a request for a public record?

MNAA requires a valid government-issued photo ID that contains the address of the requestor to be submitted with your request.

How long do I have to wait for a response to my public records request?

MNAA seeks to make public records available as promptly as possible, but if it is not practicable to make the records promptly available, MNAA has seven (7) business days to respond to a request or advise when the records can reasonably be made available. 

Am I required to be a Tennessee citizen?

Yes, under the TPRA. However, if the requestor is a party directly involved in the incident, MNAA will make its best efforts to provide the public records requested.

Can I request an unredacted copy of a motor vehicle accident report if I am not a named party in the accident?

Yes. However, the non-party requestor must certify they are either an agent, legal representative, or attorney, AND have permission from the named person, persons, or entities authorized to obtain the motor vehicle records information pursuant to T.C.A. § 10-7-504(a)(31).

What happens to my public records request if I fail to provide the required documentation?

Only a complete public records request will receive a response.