Members of the public may make requests for inspection or for copies of public records for the Forest Preserves of Cook County (“Forest Preserves”) under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”), 5 ILCS 140/1 et seq. This Act generally provides that all records in the custody of a public body are presumed to be open to inspection or copying unless the public body can otherwise prove that the records may be exempt from disclosure. Overall, the Illinois FOIA seeks to provide access to public records while protecting the legitimate interests of the public body and the private rights of citizens.
On this page:
How to Make a FOIA Request
All Freedom of Information requests submitted to the Forest Preserves must include the following information:
- Contact information of the requester;
- A description of the records that are being requested; and
- Whether the request is for commercial purposes.
To request an inspection or copies of public records, please complete our online form below. FOIA requests may also be submitted in person or by U.S. mail at the Forest Preserves downtown office (69 W Washington St, Suite 2010, Chicago, IL 60602). In-person FOIA requests at the downtown office are by appointment only. Please call 312-603-0020 during normal business hours to schedule a drop-off time with staff.
Request Form & Resources
- Forest Preserves FOIA Request Form (PDF)
- Cook County FOIA Information
- Illinois Freedom of Information Act “FOIA” (Illinois General Assembly – 5 ILCS 140/1 et seq.)
Have questions or need help? Email Forest Preserves FOIA Officer, Rhonda Boyd-Johnson, at fpdcc.foia@cookcountyil.gov.
Submit a FOIA Request Online
Additional Information on FOIA Requests
- All requests must be made in writing and should specifically state which public records are desired for inspection and/or copying. The written request should include the requester’s contact information to facilitate communication, discussion regarding the specific information requested, and timely responses.
- The Forest Preserves website (fpdcc.com) provides immediate and/or online access to the following:
- Budget and financial information
- Departments and leadership
- Board and committee meeting records, proceedings and elected officials
- Conservation and Policy Council
- Awarded contracts
- Forest Preserves Code of Ordinances
- Additional online resources and information (available on the About page)
