FOI Timescales - 20 Working Days Cardiff

Civil Rights and Equity Wales 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Wales

In Cardiff, Wales, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to the council and local public bodies are governed by the UK FOI framework and local procedures. This guide explains the 20 working day response standard, how Cardiff Council accepts requests, what to expect if a request is refused or delayed, and practical steps to appeal or report non-compliance. It is aimed at residents, journalists, and organisations who need to make or follow up on FOI requests to Cardiff public bodies.

How the 20 working day timescale applies

Under the FOI regime the normal statutory response period is 20 working days for public authorities to respond to a valid request. Cardiff Council publishes its procedures on making FOI requests and the local handling process for requests made to the council[1]. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides guidance and confirms the 20 working day timescale and related exemptions and extensions for public authorities[2].

Allow extra time for complex requests or consultations with third parties.

What counts as a working day and clock stops

  • Working days exclude weekends and bank holidays.
  • Clock starts on the day the authority receives a valid request.
  • If the authority needs clarification, the clock stops until clarification is provided.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for FOI compliance is handled primarily by the ICO and by judicial review in courts; local councils can face decision notices ordering disclosure. Specific monetary fines for FOI breaches are not specified on the cited pages for FOI enforcement and vary by case and statutory regime; see the ICO for enforcement tools and outcomes[2].

  • Fines/monetary penalties: not specified on the cited page for FOI; ICO enforcement tools include notices rather than set FOI fines.
  • Escalation: decision notices, enforcement notices and referral to courts; specific escalation amounts or bands are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: information/decision notices ordering disclosure, reports, and court action where necessary.
  • Enforcer: Information Commissioner’s Office for statutory enforcement; Cardiff Council Information Governance or FOI team handles initial complaints and internal review[1].
  • Appeals/review: internal review with the council, then complaint to the ICO; statutory time limits for internal review and ICO referral are set by procedure and guidance on the cited pages or are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: exemptions such as personal data, commercially sensitive information, and national security may apply; public interest tests and "reasonable excuse" grounds are addressed in ICO guidance[2].
If you disagree with a refusal, request an internal review from the council first.

Applications & Forms

Cardiff Council provides guidance and the method to submit FOI requests on its official FOI pages; a specific online form or email address for submission is listed there where provided by the council[1]. If no form is used, a written request that reasonably describes the information and gives a contact address is accepted under the FOI rules.

Action steps

  • Make your request in writing, clearly state the information you want, and give a contact email or postal address.
  • Note the date of receipt and expect a reply within 20 working days unless the authority asks for clarification.
  • Request an internal review from Cardiff Council if refused or delayed, then complain to the ICO if unsatisfied.
  • If the ICO issues a decision notice you may be required to comply or face further legal steps.
Keep records of correspondence and dates when you submit or receive responses.

FAQ

What is the FOI response time in Cardiff?
The standard statutory response is 20 working days from the day the council receives a valid request, subject to exemptions and extensions.[2]
How do I make a request to Cardiff Council?
Use the methods described on Cardiff Council’s FOI pages; the council provides the submission route and any local form or contact details on its site.[1]
What if Cardiff Council refuses my request?
Ask for an internal review from the council, then you can complain to the ICO if you remain dissatisfied; the ICO can issue decision notices and require disclosure.[2]

How-To

  1. Identify the public body holding the information and check the council FOI pages for submission guidance.
  2. Draft a clear written request describing the information sought and provide contact details.
  3. Submit the request via the council’s online form or the method listed on the council FOI page and note the date received.
  4. If you receive a refusal, request an internal review from the council, then complain to the ICO if unresolved.

Key Takeaways

  • Expect a reply within 20 working days in most cases.
  • Use the Cardiff Council FOI guidance to submit requests correctly.
  • Appeal via internal review, then the ICO if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Cardiff Council - Freedom of Information pages
  2. [2] Information Commissioner’s Office - Guide to Freedom of Information

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