Freedom of Information Act
One method of providing information to the public is through a Freedom of Information Act request. It is
commonly called a FOIA. Because the WVDEP is a government agency, many files are privy to public review. All
requests to review agency files must be made in writing. Requests may be submitted by email, fax or U.S.
Mail.
Once you have filed a FOIA request, you will receive an initial response acknowledging that the DEP has
received it. The response letter will inform you of the date the request was received, the divisions or
offices that will be responding and a fee schedule. The next point of contact will be from personnel within
the divisions or offices that have the requested information. They will inform you whether they possess
files pertaining to the request and how you may view or receive the information. If the requested files are
large, you will be asked to come in to view them, and will be given information on how to schedule a time to
do so.
If you would like to file a FOIA, please use the electronic form or email your request to depfoia@wv.gov.