Freedom of Information Act

You can ask us for information we hold, and in most cases it is free. Sometimes we may charge a fee if your request will take a lot of time to handle. This page explains when we charge, how much it can be, and how to pay.

When we may charge a fee

We may charge a fee to cover the cost of locating, retrieving and providing the information you ask for. We only charge for staff time and related costs allowed by the Fees Regulations.

If a fee applies, we will tell you before we send any information. We will not release the information until you pay the fee.

How we calculate fees

We calculate fees using staff time at a capped rate of £15 per hour.

Charges work like this:

• costs of up to £100: free
• costs between £100 and £600: you pay 10 per cent of the cost over £100
• if the costs are £600 or more: you pay the full cost

We may refuse the request due to excessive cost.

Fees notice

If we decide to charge, we will send you a written fees notice. This explains the amount, how we worked it out, and how to pay.

How to pay

You can pay:

• by cheque or postal order made payable to South Lanarkshire Council
• by phone on 01698 453326 using a debit or credit card

Please quote the reference number which we have given you in our letter.