FOI & EIR Charges and Internal Review - Liverpool

Parks and Public Spaces England 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 12, 2026 Flag of England

This guide explains how Freedom of Information (FOI) and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) charges and internal review rights operate for residents and businesses in Liverpool, England. It summarises how local disclosure decisions are charged, where to request an internal review, typical enforcement routes, and practical steps to apply, pay, appeal or complain to the Information Commissioner. Use the official links and contacts below to submit requests, seek reviews or report non-compliance.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for failures to comply with FOI/EIR requests is managed through official remedies rather than standard municipal fines in most cases. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) issues enforcement notices and provides guidance on charging and penalties; specific monetary fines or fixed penalties for FOI refusals are not routinely listed on the Liverpool council information pages and are governed by national enforcement processes. ICO guidance[1]

If the council refuses disclosure you can request an internal review, then complain to the ICO.
  • Monetary fines: not specified on the Liverpool information page; see ICO for enforcement remedies and penalty powers.[1]
  • Charging rules: public authorities may charge for reproduction, postage and certain costs; detailed charging rules are set out by the ICO and on national guidance.[1]
  • Escalation: typical route is request -> internal review by the council -> complaint to the ICO; specific escalation timeframes are not specified on the council page.[2]
  • Enforcer and contact: the ICO enforces FOI/EIR compliance; the Liverpool City Council Information Rights team handles internal reviews and initial complaints.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: enforcement notices, orders to disclose information, and formal remedies are the primary sanctions; criminal sanctions are rare and depend on statutory offences (not specified on the cited council page).

Applications & Forms

How to submit a request or internal review to Liverpool City Council, and whether a form is required.

  • FOI/EIR request: use the council's online request form or contact the Information Rights team as shown on the council website; the council publishes submission methods on its FOI pages.[2]
  • Response deadline: statutory response times apply (see ICO guidance for standard response periods); specific council internal-review deadlines are described on the council page or on request.[1]
  • Fees: the council may charge where legislation permits; the ICO explains permitted charging practices and cost limits.[1]
If a fee is requested, ask the council for a written fee breakdown before you pay.

Common Violations and Typical Outcomes

  • Unlawful refusal to disclose information - outcome: internal review and possible ICO enforcement notice.
  • Failing to respond within statutory time - outcome: complain to ICO; council may be instructed to respond.
  • Charging above permitted amounts - outcome: request breakdown, seek internal review, or complain to ICO.
Common remedies are disclosure orders rather than routine fixed fines.

Action Steps

  • Apply: submit an FOI or EIR request via the Liverpool City Council online form or contact email on the council FOI page.[2]
  • Review: if dissatisfied, request an internal review from the council within the timescale given in the council guidance or as soon as practicable.
  • Appeal: if the internal review does not resolve the issue, complain to the ICO using the ICO complaints process described on their site.[1]

FAQ

How do I make an FOI request to Liverpool City Council?
Submit your request using the council's online FOI/EIR request form or by emailing the Information Rights team as set out on the council FOI pages.[2]
Will I be charged for information?
Charges may apply where legislation allows; the ICO provides guidance on permitted fees and cost limits, and the council will state any fee before processing the request.[1]
What if the council refuses my request?
Ask the council for an internal review, and if still unresolved you can complain to the ICO under its appeals process.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify the information you need and whether it is covered by FOI or EIR.
  2. Submit a clear request via the Liverpool City Council FOI/EIR online form or email the Information Rights team; include contact details and scope.
  3. If a fee is requested, request a breakdown of costs and pay according to the council's instructions if you agree.
  4. If your request is refused or not answered on time, request an internal review from the council following its published process.
  5. If the internal review does not resolve the matter, file a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office using the ICO complaints form and guidance.
Start with a focused request to reduce fees and processing time.

Key Takeaways

  • FOI/EIR requests in Liverpool are handled by the council's Information Rights team and may involve charges permitted by law.
  • Internal review with the council is the first remedy; the ICO is the external regulator for appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] ICO - Charging for information and FOI guidance
  2. [2] Liverpool City Council - Freedom of Information

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