Can I be charged for an FOI request I made by email?

Assuming the information is not referred to in publication scheme

• the public authority cannot charge for staff time
• the public authority cannot charge use of contractors or specialist staff

Normally, the can charge for photocopying/postage however if you have indicated that you would like them to reply by email there should not be any photocopying/postage charges.

References

• http://www.ico.gov.uk/for_organisations/freedom_of_information/information_request/costs.aspx