The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is intended to create openness within all public authorities and government by giving individuals access to information. The Act provides a general right of access to non personal information held by public authorities, although there are a few exemptions. The exemptions allow public authorities to legitimately withhold information under certain circumstances.

Where a request for environmental information is received, it will be handled under the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR).

The FOIA also requires public authorities to produce a publication scheme, which details the types of information held by the council.