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Environmental information requests

Your right to ask for any information we hold relating to the environment, including how to make a request.

The law gives you the right to ask for information we hold that's related to the environment. 

Any requests for information about environmental matters are dealt with under the Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004.

Before you make a request

You might not need to make a request under the Environmental Information Regulations to get the information you want.

We maintain a publication scheme that contains information we regularly make available. You might be able to find the information you want by checking our publication scheme.

View our publication scheme

Tips for requesters

Environmental information is any form of information on:

  • the state of elements of the environment and their interaction (air, water, soil, land and landscape, natural sites, flora and fauna)
  • discharges, emissions, noise, radiation, waste
  • measures and activities affecting the environment (such as policies, legislation, plans, activities)
  • reports on implementation of environmental legislation
  • cost benefit and economic analysis
  • effects of the environment on conditions of human life (including floods and buildings)

It can be a good idea to spend a little bit of time thinking about your request to get it right and ensure you receive the information you need. 

Tips for requesting information under EIR – Scottish Information Commissioner

Make an EIR request

Start now

You also make an EIR request in writing or by calling us:

Information Governance team
Council Headquarters
English Street
Dumfries
DG1 2DD
Email: foi@dumgal.gov.uk
Telephone: 01387 260467

What to include

A valid request for information should:

  • include your name and address (or email address) so we can respond
  • clearly describe the information that you want
  • focus on the information you really want to see

When you'll get a response

You should get the information within 20 working days.  

If the amount of information requested is very large we may extend this to 40 working days. We'll let you know if we need to do this.

We'll either provide the information you requested or explain why the information cannot be made available. Some information such as personal data or commercially sensitive information may be exempt.

Costs

Most requests are free of charge. You may be asked to cover the costs of locating, retrieving and assembling the information. This would include staff time, copying and postage costs.

We will let you know if there will be a charge. You will have 3 months to decide whether you want to pay the charge once you receive a fees notice.

Further information

We have a combined procedure for responding to requests for environmental information with the procedure for freedom of information requests.