The public may access environmental information by submitting a request pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 ILCS 140). The Agency’s corresponding rules (“Access to Public Records of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency”, 2 Ill. Adm. Code 1828) that provide the framework by which Illinois EPA’s public records may be requested, accessed, inspected, and duplicated.
Your request for environmental information must be submitted through the following means: the interactive FOIA Request Web Form provided, or through fax, the US mail or special carrier.
Illinois EPA public records are primarily maintained by location, site/facility name, or project. Furthermore, these records are subdivided into categories reflecting the relevant Agency program, or document type. Consequently, it is important to provide as much specific information as possible when requesting information through the FOIA. In addition, Illinois EPA public records are maintained in various media including paper, microfilm, digital image, and computerized records.
Access to, or copies of public records may be obtained through the FOIA by several methods including an on-site records review at Agency Headquarters, Agency duplication (fees may be assessed) and mailing, or use of a copy contractor by the requester to perform duplication. The appropriate method will depend upon the type of media in which the requested records are maintained and the quantity of records requested. Likewise, any fees that may be assessed will vary with the type of media and the quantity of records requested.
For more information on the FOIA and how to request information under the FOIA, see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
The Right to Know law requires Illinois EPA to notify citizens when contamination in soil or groundwater that poses a threat of exposure to the public is found.