A freedom of information (FOI) request is a formal application to access government records under provincial access to information legislation. Every Canadian province has laws giving citizens the right to request government-held information, with some exceptions for personal privacy, security, advice to government, and other protected categories. Municipalities must respond to requests within specified timeframes (typically 30 days, with possible extensions). Requesters may need to pay fees for search time and photocopying. Common FOI requests seek contracts, emails, reports, policies, and records documenting government decisions. FOI laws reflect principles that government information belongs to the public, and transparency enables accountability. Some information is routinely published (budgets, council minutes), making FOI requests unnecessary. FOI requests that reveal concerning information often generate media coverage and public debate about government actions.