Public Records Request

North Carolina Public Records law states the records of any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions are public records available upon request by any citizen’s unless otherwise protected. A list of exceptions to this rule are listed in Chapter 132 of the N.C. General Statutes.


Public records include all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business. It is the policy of the State of North Carolina to allow public access to the activities of government, including public documents, for residents, members of the media and other organizations. Carteret Community College aims to uphold this policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What records may I request from Carteret Community College?

Carteret is the custodian of its own documents and does not have access to other departmental, agency or college records. State law does not require government agencies to create new records where they have not previously existed.


Who Can request public records?

Any member of the public can make a public records request.


What is the best way to submit a request?

For the most efficient service, please use the online public records request form (above).


How long does it take to receive the requested records?

Response times will vary on receiving requested records depending upon the nature of the request, the number of records requested, and the current workload of College staff. Records requests are completed in the order in which they are received.


What is the best way to prevent delays in receiving requested records?

Submitting requests with specific details and a clear focus is the best way to ensure a request is completed as quickly as possible.


Details that are helpful include:

  • The type of record being requested.
  • Who authored it or who may have the record in their possession.
  • When it was created or any relevant date limitations on the record.
  • Any relevant key words, terms, or calculations that may be included in the record.

Responses to general requests may take longer because they can include many types of documents or voluminous records and may take longer to review for necessary redactions.