Purpose

The purpose of the City Web Site is to provide information of the City's choosing to the public in order to conduct the City’s business and promote the City's goals as guided by the City Council.

The City’s Web sites are not intended to serve as a forum for free discussion. Instead, they exist to make useful and practical information available to residents, businesses, and visitors.

Scope of Application

This policy applies to all City of San José web pages representing the City or its departments, excluding the Library, which operates under a separate policy.

City electronic media must be used for official purposes only.

Policy

1. Development of Content

Content must be approved by authorized City staff and align with City goals.

2. Political Speech

Public funds may not be used to support or oppose ballot measures or political campaigns.

3. Commercial Speech / Advertising

Commercial advertising is not allowed on City websites.

4. Media Links

The City does not allow links to media sites.

5. Linking

The City may link to external sites that support official City purposes.

Examples of Acceptable Linking Purposes

• Promoting City services and facilities
• Providing information to residents and visitors
• Supporting economic development and international engagement
• Facilitating access to education and healthcare

Users should review privacy policies of external sites before providing personal information.

Linking Guidelines

• Links must support City services or goals
• Content must be useful and manageable
• Technology tools may be linked if required for access

6. Privacy and Disclosure

Anonymous Information

• Previous website visited (URL)
• IP address or domain
• Browser type

This information is used to improve services and cannot identify individuals.

Personally Identifiable Information (PII)

The City collects only necessary personal information and protects it from unauthorized access.

• Access governed by the California Public Records Act
• Email addresses are not sold for marketing
• Cookies may be used for functionality
• Users may disable cookies but some features may not work

7. Contractual Services

Contractors must comply with City policies and may not share data.

8. Electronic Signatures and Payments

Sensitive data is encrypted to protect confidentiality.

9. Disclaimer

The City provides content “as is” and is not liable for damages resulting from its use.

10. Access to Information

Individuals may access and correct their personal information unless restricted by law.

11. Non-City Web Sites

The City is not responsible for external websites or their content.

12. Disabled Access

The City is committed to maintaining accessibility standards.

References

View original policy document

View Digital Privacy Policy