What is a Public Record?

The term "public records" generally includes those government records determined to be available for inspection by public under NJSA 47:1A-1, which is part of OPRA.

Under that statutory section, a "government record" is defined as a physical record that has been generated, maintained, or received by a public agency in the course of its official business. The term does not include:

  • Criminal investigatory records (e.g., police reports regarding a crime)
  • Victim's records
  • Employee pension or personnel records
  • Domestic violence complaint records
  • Internal affairs records
  • Information regarding labor-management negotiations including statements of strategy or negotiating position
  • Emergency or security information or procedures for buildings or facilities
  • Administrative or technical information regarding computer hardware, software and -networks which, if disclosed, would jeopardize computer security
  • Inter-agency or intra-agency advisory, consultative, or deliberative material

Show All Answers

1. What is the Open Public Records Act or “OPRA”?
2. What is a Public Record?
3. What is the Process for Obtaining Public Records under OPRA?
4. What are the Fees for Obtaining Public Records?
5. Can I Appeal a Denial of my Request for Public Records under OPRA?