GIS Data Distribution Policy


The purpose of this policy is to provide a basic framework to address requests for GIS data sets from parties outside Jefferson County government.  Data sets covered by this policy include but are not limited to Geographic Information System (GIS) database and image files that represent land information as defined in Wisconsin Statute 16.967(1)(b).

The fees for GIS data sets reflect costs for staff, equipment and materials to develop and execute systems for data distribution. The County will promote efficient and effective government though sharing of data resources with outside governmental units and non-profit groups affiliated with Jefferson County programs and services.  Users who purchase the 2004/2005 terrain mapping products covering a township or greater area shall agree not to redistribute said data outside their organization. Users who obtain GIS data sets of any type through fee waivers shall agree not to redistribute said data outside their organization.

General Public users requesting GIS data sets shall pay fees established herein for the 2004/2005 terrain mapping data sets and according to the Land Records Inter-Departmental Fee Schedule adopted by the Jefferson County Board resolution (98-49). Fees for other data sets not specifically set shall be based on the per hour charge for custom map development or file processing as set by the Land Records Inter-Departmental Fee Schedule plus materials. Hourly charges shall cover staff and computer time.

Governmental and Educational: Jefferson County shall encourage more effective and efficient use of land records through data sharing by waiving fees for governmental units such as towns, villages, cities, state and federal agencies, universities, schools, sanitary districts, lake management districts or their consultants. Users receiving waivers shall agree not to redistribute data. The user shall demonstrate a need for specific GIS data sets to receive a fee waiver. Wide-ranging or blanket requests for GIS data without a specific need shall not receive fee waivers.

Non Profit groups or agencies that have an affiliation with County programs or services may receive fee waivers. The requestor shall demonstrate the affiliation making them eligible for fee waiver. If the affiliation with County programs and services is not sufficiently justified the Land Records Fee Schedule shall apply. The County Planning and Zoning Committee shall make final determination as to application of fee waivers where the groups affiliation with County programs or services is unclear.  The user shall also demonstrate the need for specific data sets to receive the fee waiver. Wide-ranging or blanket request for GIS data without a specific need shall not receive fee waivers.

Data Sharing Agreements: Jefferson County may require users receiving data with fee waivers to enter into a formal data sharing agreements where the user has or will develop data that would be beneficial to the County programs or services.  County departments may enter into these agreements when there is mutual benefit from sharing data resources.