PDF tools for public records.
Redact exempt information for FOIA responses, number productions, make scanned records searchable, and prepare documents for release, without a single record leaving your device.
Why “no upload” is essential for sensitive records
Records queued for public release still contain information exempt under FOIA and personal data protected by the Privacy Act. Uploading them to an online tool sends that data to a third party. PDF Zone processes everything in your browser, so the record never leaves your control.
Records stay in-house
Sensitive documents never touch an outside server before they're cleared for release.
True redaction
Exempt content is rasterized out, not hidden behind a box that a requester could remove.
Release-ready
Number the production and make scans searchable so review and release go smoothly.
The public-records PDF toolkit
Everything an agency needs to review, redact, and release records, all private, all free.
Redact for FOIA
Permanently remove exempt content, rasterized so a requester can't recover it.
Number a Production
Add sequential page or Bates-style numbers across a records release.
Combine Records
Merge responsive documents into one ordered production file.
Make Scans Searchable
OCR scanned records so you can find exempt terms before release.
Sanitize Metadata
Strip author names and hidden data before a record goes out.
Encrypt Records
Password-protect sensitive files when exchanging them between offices.
Confidential Stamp
Mark drafts and pre-release records with a handling stamp.
Split Records
Separate a large file into individual records for review.
Flatten PDF
Remove annotation layers so review notes don't ship with the release.
Guides for public records
Practical, step-by-step walkthroughs for redacting and releasing records the right way.
Questions from records teams
How do I redact a document for a FOIA request?
Open the Edit PDF tool, select redaction, and box out every piece of exempt or personal information, then apply and download. The tool rasterizes the covered area so a requester can't recover it, and it runs in your browser so the record is never uploaded.
Is it safe to redact government records with an online tool?
Only if the tool processes files on your device. PDF Zone runs entirely in your browser, so records queued for release are never transmitted to an outside server before they're cleared.
Can I number a records production?
Yes. Use the Page Numbers tool to add continuous or Bates-style numbering across a combined production, so pages can be cited and tracked through review and release.
How do I make scanned records searchable before review?
Run them through the OCR tool to add a searchable text layer. You can then search for exempt terms and personal identifiers before redacting and releasing.
How do I know a redaction actually removed the content?
Open the finished file, try to select the redacted area (nothing should highlight), and search the term with Ctrl+F (no results). The redaction rasterizes the region, so the content is gone rather than hidden.
Is it free for an agency to use?
Yes, all tools are free and unlimited, with no watermark, account, or subscription.
Keep sensitive records secure.
Redact, number, and release public records without a single upload.
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