At Washington County Property Appraiser Info, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency in how we collect, use, and safeguard your information. This Privacy Policy outlines the types of data we gather when you visit our website, how that information is used, and the measures we take to keep it secure. Whether you’re browsing property records, using our tools, or contacting us through online forms, your trust is important to us. Please note that this website is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with the official Washington County government.
Information We Collect
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we are committed to safeguarding your privacy and being transparent about how your information is collected and used. The data we gather is intended solely to enhance your browsing experience, provide accurate and relevant content, and improve the performance of our site. The information we collect falls into two main categories:
Data You Provide Voluntarily
We collect personal information that you choose to provide to us through various forms of interaction on our website. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Contact forms: When you fill out a form to ask a question or request information, we may collect your name, email address, phone number, and the details of your inquiry.
- Newsletter subscriptions: If you subscribe to updates or alerts, we store your email address and your communication preferences.
- User feedback and comments: Any content you submit through comment boxes or feedback forms may also be collected and stored.
This voluntarily submitted data is used exclusively to respond to your inquiries, provide requested information, enhance your experience, or deliver periodic updates you have subscribed to. We do not share this information with third parties for marketing or advertising purposes.
Automatically Collected Information
When you visit our website, certain data is collected automatically through standard internet technologies. This type of information is used for analytics, performance monitoring, and system optimization. Automatically collected data includes:
- IP address and geographic location: Helps us understand general user demographics and detect potential security threats.
- Browser type and operating system: Allows us to ensure our website functions properly across all platforms.
- Device information: Such as whether you are visiting from a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop.
- Pages visited and time spent on site: Enables us to identify which content is most helpful or engaging to visitors.
- Referral URLs: Shows how users find our site, such as via search engines, external links, or direct traffic.
This data is anonymized and aggregated, meaning it is not linked to your personal identity. It is strictly used to improve website structure, page load speeds, and overall user experience.
How We Use Your Information
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we respect your privacy and are committed to using your information in a lawful, responsible, and transparent manner. The data we collect—whether provided voluntarily or gathered automatically—is used strictly to enhance the services we offer, improve your user experience, and ensure compliance with legal obligations. Below are the key ways in which your information may be used:
For Service Improvements
We use both voluntarily submitted and automatically collected data to better understand how users interact with our website. This allows us to:
- Analyze website traffic patterns to identify popular pages and improve navigation.
- Detect usability issues and enhance overall site performance.
- Tailor content to match the needs and interests of our visitors.
- Monitor technical performance, such as load times and compatibility with different devices or browsers.
By understanding how users engage with our site, we can continually refine our platform to make it more useful, responsive, and relevant to your needs.
Communication & Notifications
If you choose to provide your contact information through forms, subscription services, or direct inquiries, we may use that data to:
- Respond to your questions, feedback, or support requests.
- Send notifications about changes to our services or policies.
- Deliver email newsletters or updates if you’ve opted in.
- Provide information about property appraisal topics relevant to Washington County.
You may unsubscribe from email communications at any time by following the instructions provided in each message
Legal and Compliance Purposes
In some circumstances, we may retain or disclose certain types of information to meet our legal and regulatory obligations. This includes:
- Complying with Washington State and federal laws regarding data retention, user communications, or lawful access requests.
- Cooperating with law enforcement agencies, court orders, or government authorities, when legally required.
- Enforcing our terms of use and protecting our rights, safety, and the security of our users and website.
We only retain data for as long as necessary to fulfill these legal purposes or until it is no longer required for the services you have requested.
Data Protection and Security Measures
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we place the utmost importance on safeguarding your personal information. We implement robust technical, administrative, and physical security measures to protect your data against unauthorized access, loss, alteration, or disclosure. Our commitment to privacy and data protection is rooted in industry best practices and aligned with applicable data security laws.
Encryption and Secure Access
To ensure your data remains protected during transmission, our website uses:
- HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): All communications between your browser and our website are encrypted using SSL/TLS technology, preventing third parties from intercepting or tampering with the information.
- Modern Encryption Protocols: When you submit data via contact forms, subscription options, or inquiry tools, it is transmitted securely using current encryption standards to maintain confidentiality and integrity.
These encryption layers are consistently monitored and updated to align with evolving cybersecurity standards, ensuring that any personal information you share with us is transmitted in a protected manner.
Internal Access Restrictions
We strictly control who can access user data within our organization. Our internal access policies include:
- Role-Based Access Controls: Only authorized personnel—such as system administrators or support staff—are permitted to access user data, and only for tasks directly related to the operation or maintenance of the website.
- Least Privilege Principle: Each staff member is granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their specific duties.
- Audit Logs and Monitoring: Access activities are tracked through system logs to ensure accountability and prevent misuse.
- Confidentiality Obligations: Staff members are trained on data privacy protocols and are required to adhere to confidentiality agreements and internal security guidelines.
These internal measures help prevent accidental or unauthorized handling of user information and contribute to maintaining a secure data environment.
Opt-Out Preferences
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we respect your right to control how your personal information is used. Whether you’re concerned about marketing communications or online tracking, we provide clear options for you to manage your preferences and protect your privacy.
How to Limit the Use of Your Data
You have the ability to opt out of various forms of data usage and tracking through the following methods:
Email Communications
If you have subscribed to updates, alerts, or newsletters:
- You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the “Unsubscribe” link at the bottom of any email.
- Alternatively, you may contact us directly to request removal from future communications.
Browser and Cookie Preferences
To manage how your data is tracked while browsing:
- Adjust your browser settings to disable or block cookies, which may limit website tracking and analytics functions.
- Use browser features such as “Do Not Track” (DNT) or install browser extensions that block cookies and third-party scripts.
- Please note that disabling cookies may affect certain website features or reduce performance.
Analytics and Advertising Tools
We may use third-party analytics services (e.g., Google Analytics) to better understand how users interact with our website. To limit data collection:
- Use tools like the Google Analytics Opt-Out Browser Add-on.
- Manage your preferences through platforms like the Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA) or Network Advertising Initiative (NAI) for broader ad tracking control.
By providing these options, we empower you to take control of your personal data while still accessing the resources and information available on our platform. If you need assistance managing your preferences or have questions about our data practices, feel free to contact us directly.
Cookies & Tracking Technologies
To enhance user experience, personalize content, and gather essential analytics, the Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource) website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies. These tools help us better understand user behavior, ensure website functionality, and improve our digital services.
Types of Cookies We Use
We employ various types of cookies to support both essential website operations and user-centered features. The primary categories include:
- Session Cookies:
These are temporary cookies that are automatically deleted once you close your browser. They help maintain your session during your visit, allowing smooth navigation across different pages without losing form data or preferences. - Functional Cookies:
These cookies store user preferences and choices (such as language or accessibility settings) to offer a consistent and personalized browsing experience during future visits. - Analytics Cookies (e.g., Google Analytics):
These cookies collect information about how visitors interact with our website, such as pages viewed, time spent, and referring links. This data helps us analyze site traffic and performance to make improvements. We use trusted third-party services like Google Analytics, which may also set their own cookies in accordance with their privacy policies.
Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You maintain full control over your cookie settings. Here’s how you can manage or disable cookies:
- Browser Settings:
Most modern browsers allow you to block, manage, or delete cookies through the settings menu. You can usually find these options under “Privacy” or “Security.” Note that disabling certain cookies may impact your ability to use some website features. - Cookie Consent Banner:
If applicable, our website may display a cookie consent banner during your first visit. This allows you to opt in or out of non-essential cookies, such as analytics or marketing cookies, in accordance with data protection regulations. - Third-Party Tools:
If you prefer to manage analytics tracking separately, you can install browser extensions like the Google Analytics Opt-out Add-on, or adjust your ad tracking preferences through platforms such as the Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA) or Network Advertising Initiative (NAI).
By providing cookie transparency and opt-out options, we aim to respect your privacy choices while maintaining a high-quality digital experience. If you have questions or need help managing your preferences, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Sharing & Third-Party Services
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we value your privacy and are committed to responsible data handling. While we strive to keep your information secure and confidential, certain operational needs may require limited and controlled sharing with third-party service providers.
When and Why We Share Information
We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to marketers or unrelated third parties. However, in specific and limited cases, we may share certain data with trusted third-party vendors. These scenarios include:
- Website Performance & Analytics:
We may share anonymized usage data with platforms like Google Analytics to understand how users engage with our content and improve overall site performance. - Technical and Hosting Services:
Hosting providers or website maintenance teams may access non-sensitive data strictly for uptime monitoring, troubleshooting, or content updates. - Legal Compliance:
If legally required, we may disclose information in response to court orders, subpoenas, or lawful requests by public authorities, including to meet national security or law enforcement requirements.
All data sharing is conducted under strict confidentiality and only with entities that agree to handle your information in compliance with applicable data protection laws and our internal privacy standards.
Third-Party Tools and Services
To operate efficiently and enhance your online experience, we rely on several third-party tools and integrations. These providers may collect or process user data under their own privacy policies. Examples of third-party services we may use include:
- Google Analytics – for anonymized traffic and user behavior reporting.
- Cloud hosting providers – to securely store and deliver our content to users.
- Form builders – for managing user-submitted inquiries or contact requests.
- Content delivery networks (CDNs) – to ensure faster and more reliable site access.
Each of these third parties is selected based on their commitment to security, data integrity, and legal compliance. While we configure these tools to minimize data exposure and uphold user privacy, we encourage visitors to review the privacy policies of any third-party platforms they engage with through our site.
By maintaining clear boundaries on data use and holding our service partners to high privacy standards, we aim to foster a safe and trustworthy browsing experience for all users.
Your Rights & Data Control Options
At Washington County Property Appraiser (Unofficial Resource), we believe in transparency and user empowerment when it comes to personal data. As a visitor to our website, you have certain rights regarding how your data is collected, used, stored, and shared. We provide clear options to help you exercise control over your information and ensure it remains accurate and secure.
Requesting Data Access or Deletion
You have the right to know what personal data we may have collected about you and how it is used. If you wish to:
- Review the data we hold,
- Request a copy of your personal information, or
- Ask us to delete your data from our records,
you can do so by reaching out to us directly via the contact information listed in the Contact Us section of this website. Upon receiving your request, we will verify your identity and respond within a reasonable timeframe, in accordance with applicable privacy laws.
Please note:
We may retain some information for legal compliance or administrative purposes, even if a deletion request is submitted.
Updating Your Personal Information
To ensure that your information remains accurate and relevant, we encourage you to contact us whenever:
- Your email address, phone number, or other contact details change.
- You want to adjust your communication preferences or consent settings.
- You believe that any data we hold is incorrect or outdated.
Timely updates help us maintain reliable records and deliver relevant information or responses when needed. All updates will be processed securely, and we will confirm any changes once completed.
By offering clear access and correction rights, we aim to give you full control over your personal data, while upholding the highest standards of accountability and data stewardship. Let us know how we can support you in managing your privacy preferences.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We are committed to keeping you informed about how we collect, use, and protect your personal data. As technology evolves and legal requirements change, we may periodically update this Privacy Policy to reflect new practices, regulatory compliance, or enhancements to our services.
Notification of Updates
Whenever this Privacy Policy is revised, we will:
- Post the updated version on this page for public viewing.
- Clearly indicate the effective date of the most recent revision.
- When significant changes occur, we may also notify users through a banner, pop-up, or email (if applicable), especially if the updates affect how your personal data is handled.
We recommend reviewing this policy regularly to stay informed about our data practices and your privacy rights.
Date of Last Revision
This Privacy Policy was last updated on July 31, 2025.
If you have questions about the changes or how they affect your data, please contact us using the information provided in the Contact Us section.
Contact Us for Privacy Concerns
We take your privacy seriously and are committed to maintaining transparency in how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information. If you have any questions about our data practices, need clarification regarding your privacy rights, or wish to file a concern, we encourage you to reach out. Our team is available to provide guidance and address any privacy-related matters promptly and respectfully.
How to Reach the Washington County Property Appraiser
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests related to this Privacy Policy or how your personal information is handled, we encourage you to get in touch with us.
You can reach the Washington County Property Appraiser’s office through the methods listed on our Contact Us page, or by emailing us directly at privacy@washingtoncountypropertyappraiser.org. We are committed to protecting your privacy and will respond to inquiries in a timely and respectful manner.