Accessing information outside of the FOIP Act

There are a number of records that can be released under certain circumstances.

Examples include:

• Building permit information and related documentation
  The records requested would be reviewed to determine whether any of the exceptions to disclosure in the FOIP Act apply and then all or part of the records would be released on the basis of this review.
• Assessment roll information
  The assessment roll is made available for inspection at Woodlands County Municipal Office in Whitecourt. Please note that it can be viewed only.
• Tax and utility account information
  If you are not the registered owner of the subject property, or named on the account, written permission is required from the registered owner or the individual named on the account.
• Contact information for residents (ie. for service of documents, collection of debt or other legal matters) Under the Act, this information can only be disclosed if another piece of legislation provides for it.
  The County is only permitted to release information for the purpose for which it was collected (ie. purposes of administering utility accounts or licensing program). The information is not collected for the examples given and, therefore, the County is prohibited by the Act in providing information to requestors.
  Under certain circumstances, address information may be obtained through the Land Titles Office.
  Examples of legislation include Maintenance Enforcement Act, Income Tax Act.
• Information regarding a complainant
  The County’s practice is to not release the personal information of an individual who files a complaint against another individual unless this information is necessary to resolving the issue (eg. required at trial). If the name of the complainant is to be released, the individual will be advised prior to having their name disclosed.
• Information regarding bylaw infractions
  The County is unable to advise whether or not an individual or business has been issued a notice or offence ticket regarding the violation of a bylaw. The County can only confirm that bylaws are enforced when individuals and businesses are found to be in non-compliance.