FOI & EIR Requests for Utility Records - Edinburgh

Utilities and Infrastructure Scotland 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Scotland

In Edinburgh, Scotland, you can request utility and infrastructure records held by the City of Edinburgh Council under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act and, where relevant, the Environmental Information Regulations. The council states it aims to respond to FOI and EIR requests within 20 working days[1]. This guide explains what records are typically held, how to make a clear request, who enforces compliance, common outcomes and practical action steps to apply, pay for copies, appeal a refusal or escalate a problem.

What records are covered

The City may hold a range of utility-related records useful for developers, surveyors, community groups and residents. Typical categories include:

  • As-built plans and drawings for council-managed infrastructure.
  • Street-works permits, traffic management and wayleave records.
  • Correspondence with utility companies and contractors.
  • Records of inspections, maintenance and known constraints on council land.
Requests are easier to fulfil if you give a clear description and date range for the records you want.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Edinburgh Council is responsible for handling requests but enforcement of FOISA and EIR compliance rests with the Scottish Information Commissioner and, where applicable, court processes. The council's publicly stated response target is 20 working days; specific fine amounts or fixed monetary penalties for council non-compliance are not specified on the cited page.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: enforcement notices, requirements to disclose information or administrative directions may be issued by the Commissioner (details not specified on the cited page).
  • Enforcer and contact: Information Governance / FOI team at City of Edinburgh Council; complaints may be escalated to the Scottish Information Commissioner.
  • Appeals/review: complain to the Commissioner after internal review; specific statutory time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: exemptions and exceptions (eg personal data, commercially sensitive or security-related information) may lawfully justify redaction or refusal under FOISA/EIR.
If the council refuses to disclose, ask for the specific exemption cited and an internal review before escalating.

Applications & Forms

How to apply and what fees apply:

  • Method: the council accepts requests via its online information-request system, by email or by post; check the council page for the current contact details and submission options.
  • Fees: reproduction or administrative charges may apply in some cases, but specific fee schedules are not specified on the cited page.
  • Deadlines: the council states a 20 working day response target for FOI/EIR requests; if more time is needed you should be informed of the extension and reason.
Include precise site references, dates and file types to speed retrieval.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Failure to respond within timescale — outcome: internal review request, then complaint to the Commissioner.
  • Over-redaction of material — outcome: Commissioner may order disclosure of non-exempt material.
  • Charging excessive fees without justification — outcome: challenge via internal review and Commissioner complaint.
Document your request and any council responses as evidence for an appeal.

FAQ

How long will the council take to respond to a request for utility records?
The City of Edinburgh Council states it aims to respond within 20 working days for FOI and EIR requests; complex cases may take longer and you should be informed of any extension.[1]
Can I get maps and as-built drawings for underground utilities?
You can request such records; some material may be withheld for safety, privacy or commercial reasons and charges for large reproductions may apply.
What if my request is refused?
Ask for an internal review from the council; if still dissatisfied you can complain to the Scottish Information Commissioner for independent investigation.

How-To

  1. Identify precisely the records you need: include site addresses, plan numbers, date ranges and file types.
  2. Submit a clear written request via the City of Edinburgh Council's online FOI/EIR request route or by email to the Information Governance team, stating FOI or EIR and your contact details.
  3. If the council issues a fee estimate, respond promptly or request a fee waiver if applicable.
  4. Wait for the council's response (target 20 working days); if refused, request an internal review.
  5. If internal review upholds refusal, file a complaint with the Scottish Information Commissioner with your request, council responses and review outcome.

Key Takeaways

  • Expect a council response within 20 working days; clarity speeds retrieval.
  • Be precise in your request and keep records of all correspondence.
  • Use internal review, then the Scottish Information Commissioner to appeal refusals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Edinburgh Council - Freedom of information and data protection

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