Data Practices

The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA) regulates the management of government data that is collected, created, received or released by a governmental entity. The MGDPA can be found in Chapter 13 of Minnesota Statutes.

Washington County has developed Data Practices Policy #1300, along with its Guidelines and Procedures to assist county personnel in managing county government data and responding to requests for data or information.

Those wishing to request information through the Minnesota Government Practices Act may use this form. (Download).


The MGDPA requires the county to prepare and post a list of the records or forms that include private or confidential data on individuals. These lists have been developed by each department within the county and are updated annually.