Privacy Policy establishes our firm commitment to protecting your personal information. We recognize that you expect transparency and security when interacting with the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser. This document serves as the official Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy, clearly outlining the rules for data handling. We aim to ease any concerns about your property data privacy Okeechobee County residents may have. This detailed Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice explains what information we collect, why we collect it, and how we protect it. It is important to know that while some property records are public, we maintain strict Okeechobee County property records confidentiality for non-public data. Reviewing these privacy practices Okeechobee County assessor policies helps you understand your rights regarding Okeechobee County real estate data protection. We want to be clear about our Okeechobee County personal information policy, ensuring every citizen feels secure when using our services or accessing public records. This document represents the data privacy guidelines Okeechobee County property office follows every day. We uphold high standards for Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules. Your trust is our priority, and this policy demonstrates our dedication to protecting your information. We strongly believe in protecting your private data.
Privacy Policy extends its scope to cover all aspects of property tax and real estate data management. This commitment includes strict adherence to Okeechobee County property tax data privacy regulations, ensuring your financial information remains secure. We detail the procedures for property information privacy Okeechobee County follows when handling sensitive data. The Okeechobee County assessor office data protection measures are designed to safeguard all data against unauthorized access or misuse. This formal privacy statement Okeechobee County property appraiser issues clarifies the difference between public information and private data. While we operate under the Florida public records law, this Okeechobee County public records privacy policy defines the limits and exceptions applied to real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County must uphold. We outline our Okeechobee County property database privacy practices, which apply to all data stored in our systems. Our Okeechobee County appraisal services privacy section addresses how we protect the data used during the appraisal process. Specific attention is given to Okeechobee County GIS & parcel data privacy, recognizing the sensitivity of geographic information. This data handling policy Okeechobee County property office uses ensures that all property tax information, including assessment details, is treated with the highest level of care, reflecting our Okeechobee County property tax information privacy standards. We want you to feel confident in our security protocols and methods.
Information We Collect
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser collects various types of information to perform its statutory duties. This collection supports property valuation, tax roll creation, and public service delivery. The collection of data follows Florida state statutes and local government requirements. We separate the data we collect into two main categories: data you give us and data collected automatically.
The office minimizes the collection of data not needed for official business. Every step in the data collection process follows the data privacy guidelines Okeechobee County property office uses. This approach helps maintain the highest standards of Okeechobee County property records confidentiality.
Data You Provide Voluntarily
Citizens supply certain information directly when interacting with the office. This is often necessary for specific official requests or applications. Examples include applying for a homestead exemption or filing an appeal.
When you complete a homestead exemption application, you provide personal identifying details. This includes your name, social security number, and date of birth. This personal information is required to verify eligibility under Florida Statutes.
Other voluntary data might include email addresses for electronic communication preferences. We also collect phone numbers for communication about property assessments or tax issues. This information is treated according to the Okeechobee County personal information policy.
Property owners filing a Value Adjustment Board (VAB) petition must supply specific financial data. This may include income and expense statements for commercial properties. Such financial data receives the highest level of Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules protection.
The table below shows examples of voluntary data and its purpose:
| Type of Voluntary Data | Official Purpose | Privacy Status |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security Number | Homestead Exemption Verification | Confidential (Exempt from Public Records) |
| Email Address | Electronic Notice of Property Value (TRIM) | Public Record (Unless requested exempt) |
| Financial Statements (VAB) | Property Value Appeals Review | Confidential |
| Mailing Address | Official Correspondence and Tax Notices | Public Record |
Providing this data allows the office to complete statutory tasks accurately. The Okeechobee County property tax data privacy standards apply to all submitted financial and personal identifiers. We ensure that non-public data remains secure from unauthorized release.
Automatically Collected Information
When you visit the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser’s website, some information is collected automatically. This data helps us improve the website’s performance and security. We collect this data without requiring any direct action from you. The web server automatically records basic connection information. This includes your Internet Protocol (IP) address and the type of browser you use. We also log the date and time of your visit and the pages you view.
This automatically collected data is used for system management and site traffic analysis. It helps us understand which Okeechobee County property database privacy practices are most effective. We use this data in an aggregated form, meaning it does not identify you personally. Our systems may use small text files called “cookies” to improve website functionality. Cookies help maintain your session and remember your preferences for future visits. You can set your browser to refuse cookies, but some website features may not work correctly.
Information related to Okeechobee County GIS & parcel data privacy is handled carefully. While public GIS data is accessible, internal system logs related to access are protected. This ensures the integrity and security of the real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County maintains. We do not use persistent cookies to track your activities on other websites. The purpose of automatic collection is solely to support the operations of the Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice and website.
How We Use Your Information
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser uses collected information only to fulfill its legal duties. The uses align strictly with Florida Statutes and the principles of property data privacy Okeechobee County residents expect. Each use of data is tied to a specific operational need.
We apply the data handling policy Okeechobee County property office uses to ensure legal compliance. This policy covers all steps from data entry to data destruction. Transparency in data use builds public trust in the Okeechobee County assessor office data protection efforts.
For Service Improvements
Aggregated and anonymized data helps us improve the services we provide to the public. We look at website usage patterns to make the online portal easier to use. This makes public access to property records more efficient.
System logs help us identify and fix technical issues quickly. This ensures the continuous availability of our online Okeechobee County appraisal services privacy tools. Improving service quality is a continuous goal. We use feedback submitted by users to refine our application forms and processes. This reduces errors and makes interactions with the office smoother. This internal review process supports the Okeechobee County real estate data protection goals.
Communication & Notifications
We use contact information to send official notifications required by law. The most common communication is the Notice of Proposed Property Taxes, also known as the TRIM notice. These notices are sent to the mailing address on file. Email addresses are used only when you opt-in to receive electronic communications. This might include alerts about important deadlines or changes in policy. We respect your preferences concerning the Okeechobee County personal information policy for contact data.
Phone numbers are used only for direct communication regarding your specific property. Examples include scheduling an inspection or clarifying a homestead exemption application detail. We do not use this contact data for marketing or non-official purposes. The communication methods comply with the real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County rules. We take care to send sensitive information only through official, verified channels. You can manage your communication preferences as detailed later in this privacy statement Okeechobee County property appraiser document.
Legal and Compliance Purposes
The primary use of property data is to meet the legal mandates of the Property Appraiser’s Office. These mandates include appraising property, maintaining the tax roll, and administering exemptions. All data processing serves these official, legal functions. We must release public records as required by Chapter 119, Florida Statutes (Public Records Law). This law governs the Okeechobee County public records privacy policy. We carefully review all requests to ensure only public data is released.
We use specific personal data to comply with state requirements for exemption verification. For instance, the Social Security number is used solely to verify homestead exemption eligibility with the Department of Revenue. This is a strict adherence to Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules. We also use data for internal auditing and system security monitoring. This ensures the integrity of the tax roll and protects against fraud. These security checks are central to the Okeechobee County assessor office data protection strategy.
The office must cooperate with law enforcement and court orders. If a legal subpoena requires data release, we comply only after verifying the legitimacy and scope of the request. This legal obligation is outlined in the Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy.
Data Protection and Security Measures
Protecting your property data privacy Okeechobee County is a top priority for the office. We employ multiple layers of security to safeguard all collected information. These measures meet or exceed state and federal standards for government data security. Our security protocols cover physical, technical, and administrative safeguards. The data handling policy Okeechobee County property office uses is regularly updated to address new threats. We are committed to maintaining the trust of the public through strong security.
Encryption and Secure Access
All sensitive personal information stored in our databases is protected by encryption. Encryption scrambles data so that only authorized parties can read it. This is a fundamental part of the Okeechobee County property database privacy practices. When you access our online services, the connection is secured using SSL/TLS encryption. This ensures that data transmitted between your browser and our servers is private. Look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar to confirm a secure connection.
Access to internal systems requires multi-factor authentication for office personnel. This means a password alone is not enough to gain entry. This extra step significantly improves Okeechobee County real estate data protection. Regular security audits are performed on our network and application infrastructure. These audits look for vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the system. Prompt patching of any security flaws is a strict requirement.
Internal Access Restrictions
Access to non-public, sensitive data is limited to specific staff members who require it for their official duties. This is known as the “need-to-know” principle. Not all employees can view all data. We use role-based access controls to manage permissions within our systems. Each employee is assigned a role, and that role determines their level of data access. This administrative safeguard prevents unauthorized internal viewing of property information privacy Okeechobee County data.
All staff receive mandatory training on privacy and security policies annually. This training covers the latest data privacy guidelines Okeechobee County property office follows. Violations of internal access rules result in disciplinary action.
Additional Security Practices
Data backups are performed regularly and stored securely off-site. This ensures that we can recover all data in the event of a disaster or system failure. Data recovery is a critical part of maintaining service continuity. Physical access to our servers and data centers is strictly controlled. Only authorized IT personnel can enter these secure areas. These physical safeguards complement our technical security measures.
We maintain firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor network traffic for threats. These systems automatically block suspicious activity. Protecting the network is vital for the Okeechobee County property tax data privacy framework. When old hardware is decommissioned, all data on storage devices is securely wiped or physically destroyed. We follow industry best practices for data destruction. This ensures that no residual data remains a risk.
Our Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice includes a commitment to staying current with technology. We continually evaluate new security technologies to improve data protection. This proactive stance supports the overall Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy.
Opt-Out Preferences
The law allows certain property owners to request that their personal information be kept confidential. This is an important part of the Okeechobee County public records privacy policy. The right to opt-out applies to specific groups of people whose safety might be compromised by the release of their address.
Florida Statute 119.071 provides exemptions for certain public safety officials and their families. This includes law enforcement, judges, prosecutors, and others. The Okeechobee County personal information policy respects these exemptions fully.
How to Limit the Use of Your Data
If you qualify for an exemption under Florida Statute 119.071, you must submit a formal request. This request must be made in writing to the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser’s office. You must provide proper identification to verify your eligibility. The request form is available on the official office website or at our physical location. Once the exemption is granted, your address and telephone number are removed from public display. They are only accessible to authorized personnel for official purposes.
The opt-out applies only to the information covered by the statute. It does not exempt your property’s appraisal information or tax history from being public. The property’s value and ownership details (name, if not exempt) remain public records.
To exercise your opt-out right and limit data use, follow these steps:
- Download the exemption request form from the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser’s website.
- Complete the form, providing the necessary documentation of your qualifying position.
- Submit the notarized form in person or by mail to the Property Appraiser’s Office.
- The office reviews the request and notifies you of the status within a reasonable time.
The Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules are enforced immediately upon approval. This process ensures real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County provides to those who qualify.
Sharing & Third-Party Services
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser shares data only when required by law or necessary for official functions. We do not sell or rent your personal information to outside parties. All sharing is governed by strict rules and agreements. Any data shared with external entities adheres to the data privacy guidelines Okeechobee County property office sets. We ensure that any third party receiving data respects the same level of security and confidentiality.
When and Why We Share Information
We routinely share public property record data with other government agencies. This is necessary for the efficient operation of local and state government. Examples include sharing the tax roll with the Tax Collector and the Department of Revenue. The sharing of public data supports taxation, planning, and emergency services. This public data sharing is part of the normal operation under the Okeechobee County public records privacy policy. It ensures government efficiency.
We share confidential data only when legally mandated or necessary for official functions. For example, we may share exemption application details with the Florida Department of Revenue for auditing purposes. This ensures compliance with state law. We may also share data with law enforcement agencies under a valid subpoena or court order. This is a legal requirement and is handled with extreme caution. The Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice covers these legal obligations.
The following table summarizes common data sharing scenarios:
| Recipient | Type of Data Shared | Reason for Sharing |
|---|---|---|
| Okeechobee County Tax Collector | Property Values, Owner Names, Addresses | Tax Bill Calculation and Collection |
| Florida Department of Revenue | Homestead Exemption Data | State Audit and Compliance Verification |
| Emergency Services (911) | Okeechobee County GIS & Parcel Data | Emergency Response and Location Verification |
We have data-sharing agreements in place with these agencies. These agreements require the recipient to maintain the confidentiality of non-public data. This helps enforce Okeechobee County assessor office data protection.
Third-Party Tools and Services
The Property Appraiser’s office uses external vendors for specific technical services. These services might include website hosting, software maintenance, or data storage. These vendors are carefully selected for their security standards. Any vendor that handles our data must sign a confidentiality agreement. This agreement obligates them to protect the data according to our privacy statement Okeechobee County property appraiser rules. They cannot use the data for any purpose other than providing the agreed-upon service.
Our website uses third-party services for basic analytics, such as Google Analytics. This service helps us track website traffic and user behavior. The data collected is anonymized and used only to improve the site. We ensure that any third-party tools comply with the Okeechobee County property database privacy practices. For example, the GIS viewer may be hosted by a vendor, but the data security remains our responsibility. We monitor their compliance regularly.
We minimize the amount of personal data shared with third-party service providers. Only the minimum necessary information is provided for the service to function. This cautious approach supports property data privacy Okeechobee County efforts. Refer to our Disclaimer for important legal information.
Your Rights & Data Control Options
Citizens have specific rights regarding their personal information held by the office. These rights are protected by Florida law and our internal policies. We aim to make it easy for you to exercise control over your non-public data. The Okeechobee County personal information policy ensures that you can access and correct your non-public data. We provide clear procedures for requesting data changes or deletions where legally possible. This supports the overall real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County framework.
Requesting Data Access or Deletion
You have the right to request access to the non-public personal information we hold about you. This may include the confidential parts of your homestead exemption application. You must submit a written request to the office to start this process. We will verify your identity before releasing any confidential data. This is a crucial step to protect against identity theft. The verification process follows strict Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules.
The right to request deletion applies only to non-public data that is not required for our official duties. For example, we cannot delete data essential for maintaining the tax roll, as this is a legal mandate. We must retain official records as required by state law. If you have provided an email address for non-statutory communication, you can request its deletion from that list. This is part of the opt-out preferences mentioned earlier. We will comply with all legal and permissible deletion requests promptly.
The process for requesting access or deletion is as follows:
- Write a formal letter to the Property Appraiser’s office.
- Clearly state whether you are requesting access or deletion.
- Provide identifying information, such as property address and Parcel ID.
- Include a valid form of identification for verification.
We will respond to your request within the time frame specified by Florida law. This commitment is part of the Okeechobee County property tax data privacy standards.
Updating Your Personal Information
Maintaining accurate property records is vital for fair taxation. You are responsible for ensuring the personal information we hold about you is correct and current. This includes your name, mailing address, and exemption status. You must notify the office in writing of any change in ownership or mailing address. A change of mailing address can be done through a simple written request. This ensures you receive important official documents, like the TRIM notice.
Updates to your homestead exemption require a new application or formal written declaration of change. For example, if your marital status changes, it may affect your exemption. Keeping this data current ensures compliance with the Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy. You can update your data by visiting the office, sending a letter, or using official online forms if available. We verify all changes to maintain the integrity of the tax roll. This process supports the property information privacy Okeechobee County framework.
Accurate data is essential for the Okeechobee County assessor office data protection efforts. Incorrect mailing addresses can lead to missed notices and potential penalties. We encourage all property owners to review their data yearly.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy as needed. Changes may be required due to new Florida statutes, changes in technology, or new official procedures. We are committed to keeping this document current and accurate. Any changes will be made to strengthen your property data privacy Okeechobee County protections. We will not make retroactive changes that reduce the security of data collected previously. The commitment to transparency remains constant.
Notification of Updates
When significant changes are made to the Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice, we will notify the public. The updated policy will be posted prominently on the official office website. We aim to provide clear notice of all revisions. For minor changes, the revised policy will be posted, and the “Date of Last Revision” will be updated. We encourage you to check this page periodically. Staying informed helps you understand the Okeechobee County property records confidentiality rules.
We may also use official press releases or social media to announce major policy shifts. The goal is to ensure all citizens are aware of how the Okeechobee County real estate data protection is managed. Your continued use of our services after an update means you accept the changes.
Date of Last Revision
The date below indicates the last time this official Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy was reviewed and updated. This date helps you quickly identify if any changes have occurred since your last visit. We commit to regular review of our data handling policy Okeechobee County property office procedures.
The next scheduled review is set for October 1, 2025. This regular schedule ensures the policy remains relevant to current legal and technical standards. This is a core part of our commitment to the public. The Okeechobee County property tax data privacy standards are reflected in this date. We ensure that our policies reflect the most current legal requirements and best practices for data security.
Contact Us for Privacy Concerns
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact the office directly. We take all privacy concerns seriously and have dedicated staff to address them. Your feedback helps us maintain the highest standards of data protection. We encourage you to reach out if you believe your Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules have been violated. Prompt communication allows us to investigate and resolve issues quickly. We are here to clarify any aspect of this privacy statement Okeechobee County property appraiser document.
How to Reach the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser
You can contact the Okeechobee County Property Appraiser’s Office through multiple channels. Please direct all formal inquiries about the Okeechobee County personal information policy to the main office address. This ensures your request is logged and handled properly.
We provide multiple ways to reach us for your convenience:
- Physical Address: 304 NW 2nd St, Room 101, Okeechobee, FL 34972
- Mailing Address: 304 NW 2nd St, Room 101, Okeechobee, FL 34972
- Office Phone: (863) 763-4014
- Office Email: propertyappraiser@okeechobeepa.com (For general inquiries)
- Official Website: www.okeechobeepa.com
- Visiting Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
For urgent matters related to Okeechobee County assessor office data protection, please call the main office number. We appreciate your partnership in maintaining the security and integrity of all property records.
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser’s Office is dedicated to providing clear, accessible information. The goal is to ensure public confidence in our real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County standards. Your privacy is respected and protected at every level of our operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Okeechobee County Property Appraiser maintains a clear Privacy Policy. This rule set shows a strong commitment to keeping your personal details secure. Citizens expect openness and security when they check property data privacy Okeechobee County. This privacy statement Okeechobee County property appraiser explains the rules for data handling policy Okeechobee County property office. We want to ease any worries about your real estate data protection. Knowing these rules helps property owners feel safe about their property records confidentiality.
What is the Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy?
The Okeechobee County property appraiser privacy policy sets the rules for how the office uses data. The policy follows Florida public records law. It explains what property data is public and what details are kept private. The goal is to balance public access to assessment details with protecting personal Okeechobee County personal information policy. The policy makes sure the office handles your name and address with care. It also outlines steps for requesting confidentiality if you meet certain criteria. It is the official Okeechobee County appraisal office privacy notice for all online and physical property information privacy Okeechobee County questions.
What types of property data privacy Okeechobee County collects for public view?
The office collects specific property details that become public records. These public details include the owner’s name, mailing address, and property legal description. The data also includes the property’s value, tax amount, and building measurements. Public access supports fairness and transparency in property taxation. Property owners can view this data through the Okeechobee County GIS & parcel data privacy system. The Okeechobee County public records privacy policy states that most property appraisal details must be open to the public. However, the office does not put highly sensitive personal details online.
How can I request to keep my Okeechobee County property records confidential?
You may request Okeechobee County property records confidentiality if you belong to specific groups. These groups often include judges, police officers, or certain government employees. To request confidentiality, you must complete an exemption form. You must file this form with the Property Appraiser’s office. The form requires proof of your job status to meet the Okeechobee County property appraisal confidentiality rules. Once approved, your address and telephone number may be removed from public view. This action helps improve real estate records confidentiality Okeechobee County for those at risk.
Does the Okeechobee County assessor office data protection apply to my email address?
Yes, the Okeechobee County assessor office data protection rules cover your email address. The office does not sell or give out email addresses to outside groups for marketing. If you send an email to the office, the address may become a public record. This is true unless a Florida Statute makes it exempt. The office uses your email only for official Okeechobee County appraisal services privacy messages. You can feel secure that the office will not misuse your contact details. This practice helps uphold the privacy practices Okeechobee County assessor aims to follow.
Why does the Okeechobee County property tax data privacy matter for property owners?
The Okeechobee County property tax data privacy matters because it protects citizens from misuse of details. Knowing the rules means owners understand what is public and what is not. This clarity helps build trust between the office and the community. Strong data privacy guidelines Okeechobee County property office help prevent identity theft or unwanted contacts. The policy assures that the office follows state law when handling all property data privacy Okeechobee County matters. It keeps the public assessment system fair and secure for everyone.
Are my social security number or bank account details part of the Okeechobee County property database privacy practices?
No, your social security number or bank account details are not part of the public Okeechobee County property database privacy practices. The Property Appraiser’s office does not collect these highly sensitive details for tax assessment purposes. Because the office does not collect this type of data, it cannot release it. The focus is on property value, not financial accounts. If you send such details by mistake, the office will secure them. This security action follows the strict Okeechobee County real estate data protection standards for sensitive data.