Chattanooga Police Records & Body Cam Request Guide

Public Safety Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Chattanooga, Tennessee, members of the public can request police reports and body-worn camera (BWC) footage under municipal and state public-records processes. This guide explains which records are typically available, how to submit a request to the Chattanooga Police Department, what to expect on timing and fees, and how to appeal a denial. It summarizes official contacts and forms so residents, attorneys, and journalists can take concrete steps to obtain records lawfully.

What records are available

Police reports, incident narratives, and certain images or videos created by the Chattanooga Police Department are generally treated as public records, subject to exemptions (privacy, ongoing investigation, juvenile records, or statutory limits). Body-worn camera footage may be redacted or withheld if it falls within a statutory exemption or if disclosure would interfere with active investigations.

How to request records

Requests to the Chattanooga Police Department should be submitted in writing via the department's records request channel. Provide specific details: incident date, location, names involved, report number if known, and the exact time range for body-worn camera footage requested. Requests that are vague may be delayed for clarification.

Chattanooga Police Department Records Division[1]

Include a clear time range and location when requesting body-worn camera video.
  • Submit a written request naming the records you seek and contact details.
  • If available, attach the incident or report number to speed processing.
  • Be prepared to pay copying or redaction fees if the department charges them.
  • Use official records contacts for status updates rather than informal channels.

Chattanooga follows applicable Tennessee open-records principles; consult the state open-records guidance when questions arise about exemptions or legal standards. Tennessee Open Records Guidance[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for failure to follow public-records obligations is governed by state law and may involve court proceedings, orders to disclose, and award of attorney fees. Specific fine amounts for municipal noncompliance are not specified on the cited pages; see the official state guidance and the department contact for enforcement pathways.

If a request is denied, ask for the written reason and the statutory basis for the denial.
  • Enforcer: Chattanooga Police Department Records Division and the appropriate state court for judicial review.
  • Monetary fines/penalties: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary remedies: court orders to disclose, injunctions, and possible attorney-fee awards.
  • Time limits for appeals or lawsuits: not specified on the cited page; seek counsel or the state guidance for statutory deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The Chattanooga Police Department provides an online or printable records request form on its records page; the form name and fee schedule are not specified on the cited page. Submit the completed form per the department instructions or contact the Records Division for the current process.[1]

FAQ

How long will it take to get a police report or BWC video?
Processing time varies by workload and redaction needs; a specific statutory response time is not specified on the cited pages.
Can I get unredacted footage?
Unredacted footage is generally released only when no exemption applies; redaction may be required to protect privacy or investigations.
Are there fees to get records?
The department may charge copying or redaction fees; exact fees are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with the Records Division.

How-To

  1. Identify the exact records and time range you need.
  2. Complete the Chattanooga Police Department records request form or submit a written request with contact information.
  3. Send the request via the official Records Division channel and retain proof of submission.
  4. Pay any requested fees and, if denied, request the written basis for denial and follow appeal steps.

Key Takeaways

  • Be as specific as possible about dates, times, and locations to speed processing.
  • Use the Chattanooga Police Department Records Division and official forms for submission.
  • If denied, seek a written denial and consult state guidance or counsel about appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Chattanooga Police Department - Records Division
  2. [2] Tennessee Attorney General - Open Records Guidance

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