Make a Public Records Request

At the Department of Early Learning (DEL), we value your right to access public records. Washington law requires that, on request, identifiable public records be made available to the public for inspection and copying.

If you're seeking licensing information for a licensed child care home or center, please call our Parent Line at 1.866.482.4325. This may be the most efficient way for you to access this information. If you're seeking general information about early learning or DEL programs, please check our Web site. For parenting information, you may also call the Family Help Line at 1.800.932.HOPE (4673).

How do I make a public records request?

There are several ways to make a public records request:

  • By regular mail, using DEL's optional public records request form [63K]. Send the form to:
    Public Records Officer
    Department of Early Learning
    P.O. Box 40970
    Olympia, WA 98504-0970
  • By e-mail, using DEL's optional public records request form [94K]. Send the form to DEL's public records officer at public.records@del.wa.gov.
  • In person. Our physical address is:
    649 Woodland Square Loop, S.E.
    Lacey, WA. 98503-1035
  • FAX: 360.413.3482 (Attention: Public Records Officer)

If you choose not to use the form, you can start a public records request by:

  • Sending a letter, e-mail or fax.
  • Calling a DEL staff person.
  • Making an in-person request.
How long will it take for me to get a response to my request?

When DEL receives a public records request, staff will respond within five business days. The response will either:

  • Include the requested records
  • Acknowledge the request and, if necessary, ask for clarification to ensure DEL gets the requester is needed
  • Give a reasonable estimate of how long it will take for us to provide the record
  • Deny the request and cite the legal reason for the denial

Is there a fee to view or obtain public records?

Sometimes. Inspecting DEL records not exempt from public disclosure is free. The law allows state agencies to charge for the “actual costs” of producing public records. DEL usually charges 15 cents per page for paper records, if the total cost of the request is $10 or more.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

For questions regarding public disclosure, contact

DEL's Public Records Officer:
Phone: 360.725.4900
E-mail: public.records@del.wa.gov
FAX: 360.413.3482