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Questions or Comments: openrecs@tceq.texas.gov

Make a Public Information Request

TCEQ is committed to upholding the Public Information Act (PIA) and to ensuring public access to its records.

In accordance with Texas Government Code Section 552.2325, TCEQ temporarily suspended the requirements of the Public Information Act on Monday, Oct. 28 and Tuesday, Oct. 29 due to a significant, agency-wide interruption to its communication network that impeded staff access to agency records, data, and communication channels. These technical difficulties qualify TCEQ for a suspension period per Tex. Gov. Code Sec. 552.2325(a)(1)(B), as interruptions to communication facilities that directly interfere with TCEQ’s ability to comply with PIA requirements. TCEQ will resume PIA request processing beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 30.
 
For more information, you may view  TCEQ’s catastrophe notice on the Texas Attorney General’s website.


All TCEQ records are available for public viewing unless one of the exceptions to disclosure listed in the PIA applies.

View our policy and procedures regarding public information page to learn how we follow Texas law in releasing public information.

Do I need to submit a Public Information Request?

Many TCEQ records are available at TCEQ Records Online and do not require a Public Information Request to view or obtain.

See how to access public records on Central File Room Online.

Also see TCEQ Records and Data Online.

How do I submit a Public Information Request?

TCEQ is committed to delivering records as quickly and as accurately as possible while adhering to the confidential provisions in the Public Information Act.

  • Submit an online Public Information Request

    OR

  • Submit a written request using our Public Information Request Form or a self-composed request in any legible format by:
    • Emailing to openrecs@tceq.texas.gov.
    • Faxing to 512-239-OPEN (6736).
    • Mailing to:

      Public Information Officer, MC 197
      Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
      P.O. Box 13087
      Austin, Texas 78711-3087

    • Hand delivering to:

      Public Information Officer
      Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
      12100 Park 35 Circle, Building A
      Austin, Texas 78753.

      Please note that, pursuant to section 552.234(d) of the Public Information Act, TCEQ is not required to respond to a request for public information submitted by any other method or to any other email, fax, or address other than those listed above.

      Here are some Tips for a successful Public Information Request.

Are there charges for a Public Information Request?

TCEQ charges for reimbursement of the Certified Copies and Copying Costs incurred when responding to Public Information Requests in accordance with state law.

If the estimated cost to fulfill your request:

  • is less than $15, we will fulfill your request and provide you with the information free of charge.
  • is at least $15 but less than $40-
    • We will fulfill your request and provide you with an invoice, which must be paid within 30 days.
    • As a courtesy we will provide you with an estimate before providing you with the responsive information, if requested.
  • is at least $40 but less than $100-
    • We will provide you with an estimate, which you must accept in writing before we fulfill your request.
    • You must accept the estimate within 10 business days of the date TCEQ sends the estimate or your request will be withdrawn.
  • is $100 or more-
    • We will provide you with an estimate and a deposit invoice, for which 50% of the estimate must be paid before we initiate fulfillment of your request.
    • You must pay the deposit within 10 business days of the date TCEQ sends the invoice or your request will be withdrawn.
    • You may also be required to pay the remaining balance before the information is provided to you.

Charges vary depending on:

  • The amount of information requested.
  • The age and location of the information requested.
  • Whether the information must be copied or converted to a different media.
  • Whether you are requesting confidential information.
  • The amount of confidential information contained in the information.
  • Whether you are requesting hard copies, electronic copies, or to inspect the information.

Note: It is generally less expensive to inspect (review) TCEQ records than it is to obtain copies. The inspection must take place within 60 days or your request will be considered withdrawn.