The following Terms & Conditions outline the rules, responsibilities, and guidelines for using the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website and services. By accessing or using this site, you agree to comply with these terms, which are designed to protect both the users and the integrity of the property information provided. These Terms & Conditions cover aspects such as acceptable use, intellectual property, limitations of liability, and user responsibilities. They ensure that visitors can access property records, tools, and resources safely, responsibly, and in accordance with Florida law.
Acceptance of Terms
By accessing or using the SCPA’s website and associated services, you acknowledge that you have carefully read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. These terms apply to all visitors, including homeowners, property investors, real estate professionals, legal representatives, and any other users who access property information, tools, or services provided on this platform. Understanding and agreeing to these terms is essential for lawful and responsible use of the site.
Agreement to Use
When using this website, you agree to:
- Use the site lawfully: All interactions with the website must comply with federal, state, and local laws, including property, privacy, and intellectual property regulations.
- Provide accurate information: Any data you submit—such as property details, contact information, or exemption requests—must be truthful and accurate to ensure proper processing and communication.
- Respect website integrity: You will not engage in any activity that could damage, disable, overload, or impair the website, interfere with other users’ access, or introduce viruses or harmful content.
- Avoid misuse: Using the website to harass, defraud, or mislead others, or to collect data for unauthorized purposes, is strictly prohibited.
Compliance with these obligations helps maintain a secure, reliable, and efficient online environment for all users.
Updates to Terms
The Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office reserves the right to update or modify these Terms & Conditions at any time without prior notice. Updates may be necessary to reflect:
- Changes in laws or regulations affecting property information and taxation.
- Improvements or modifications to website features, tools, and services.
- Enhancements to privacy, security, or user experience.
All updates will be posted on the website, and users are encouraged to review this section regularly to remain informed of any revisions.
Continued Use Constitutes Acceptance
Your continued use of the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website following any updates or modifications constitutes your acceptance of the revised Terms & Conditions. If you do not agree with the updated terms, you are required to cease using the website immediately and refrain from accessing any tools, resources, or services provided online.
This approach ensures that all users remain aware of their responsibilities, the lawful use of the website, and the importance of staying informed about changes that may affect access or usage rights.
Website Usage Guidelines
The Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website provides a wealth of property information, tools, and resources for homeowners, business owners, and other stakeholders. To maintain the integrity, security, and reliability of the site, users are expected to follow these usage guidelines. Proper adherence ensures a safe and lawful environment for all visitors.
Permitted Uses
Users are allowed to access and use the website for:
- Research and personal inquiries: Searching property records, assessing market or assessed values, and reviewing exemptions or tax information.
- Educational purposes: Understanding property laws, exemptions, tax procedures, and appraisal processes.
- Official filings and applications: Submitting exemption forms, Tangible Personal Property filings, or related official documentation.
- Reference for professionals: Real estate agents, appraisers, legal professionals, and investors may consult information for legitimate property-related activities.
All permitted uses must comply with applicable laws and respect the rights of other users and the Property Appraiser’s Office.
Prohibited Activities
Certain activities are strictly prohibited to protect the website and its data:
No Unauthorized Data Scraping
Users may not use automated systems or software to extract or collect data from the website without prior written permission. This includes scraping, harvesting, or bulk downloading of property records.
No Commercial Use Without Permission
The website and its content may not be used for commercial purposes—including resale of property data or publishing it for profit—without explicit authorization from the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office.
No Misrepresentation of Affiliation
Users must not misrepresent their affiliation with the Sarasota County Property Appraiser or imply any official endorsement when using information from the site. This includes using the Property Appraiser’s branding or logos without permission.
User Responsibilities
All users are expected to:
- Provide accurate and truthful information when interacting with forms, applications, or inquiries.
- Protect their login credentials and any account information used on the website.
- Report any security vulnerabilities, misuse, or suspicious activity to the Property Appraiser’s Office.
- Follow all applicable local, state, and federal laws while using the website.
By adhering to these guidelines, users help maintain a secure, reliable, and trustworthy platform for accessing property information and resources in Sarasota County.
Intellectual Property Rights
All content, tools, and materials provided on the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website are protected by intellectual property laws, including copyright, trademark, and other proprietary rights. Users are granted limited rights to access and use this content for personal, educational, or official purposes, subject to the restrictions outlined below.
Ownership of Content
All text, graphics, images, interactive tools, databases, and other materials on this website are the property of the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office or its authorized partners. These materials are protected under U.S. copyright law and may not be used in ways that violate these rights.
Use of Website Materials
Users may access and use the website materials for:
- Personal reference and research.
- Educational purposes related to property ownership, taxation, and exemptions.
- Official property filings or inquiries through the Property Appraiser’s online tools.
All use must comply with applicable laws and respect the rights of the Property Appraiser’s Office.
Restrictions on Republishing
Users may not reproduce, distribute, or republish content from this website for commercial purposes without explicit written permission. This includes posting content on other websites, selling information, or using materials in publications without authorization.
Attribution Requirements
If website content is used for educational or non-commercial purposes, proper attribution must be given to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office. Attribution should clearly indicate the source of the material to avoid misleading representations or misappropriation of content.
Limitation of Liability & Disclaimers
The Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website is provided as a public service to offer property-related information, tools, and resources. While every effort is made to maintain accuracy, users must understand the limitations of the information provided and use the site responsibly.
No Warranty on Accuracy or Completeness
All content on this website, including property records, assessments, exemptions, and tools, is provided “as is” without any warranties, express or implied. The Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office does not guarantee that the information is complete, accurate, up-to-date, or free from errors.
Use at Your Own Risk
By accessing and using this website, you agree to use the information at your own risk. The Property Appraiser’s Office is not responsible for any decisions, actions, or consequences that may result from the use of this website, including property transactions, tax filings, or legal matters.
Errors, Omissions & Outdated Information
Despite regular updates, some data may be incomplete, outdated, or contain errors. Users should verify all critical information, especially for property ownership, tax calculations, or legal filings, with the official Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office before making decisions.
External Links Disclaimer
The website may contain links to third-party websites for convenience or reference. These external sites are not controlled or endorsed by the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office. The office is not responsible for the content, accuracy, privacy practices, or policies of external sites, and linking does not constitute an endorsement.
User Accounts & Security (If Applicable)
Certain features on the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website may require users to create accounts, such as accessing personalized tools, submitting exemption applications, or managing property information. Ensuring the security of these accounts is critical to protecting personal and property data.
Account Responsibility
Users are responsible for all activity that occurs under their account. This includes:
- Providing accurate and current information when creating or updating accounts.
- Ensuring that the account is used in accordance with these Terms & Conditions and all applicable laws.
- Monitoring account activity and immediately reporting any unauthorized use.
Failure to maintain proper account responsibility may result in restricted access or termination of account privileges.
Protecting Your Login Credentials
Users must take all reasonable steps to protect their login credentials, including:
- Choosing strong, unique passwords and changing them regularly.
- Keeping login information confidential and not sharing it with others.
- Logging out of accounts when using shared or public devices.
Maintaining credential security is essential to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive property information.
Unauthorized Access Reporting
If you suspect that your account has been compromised or accessed without authorization, you should:
- Contact the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office immediately via official phone, email, or online contact form.
- Provide relevant account details to assist staff in investigating and securing the account.
- Follow any recommended steps to reset passwords or secure your information.
Prompt reporting helps safeguard your account and ensures that the Property Appraiser’s Office can take timely action to protect all users.
Data Collection & Privacy
Protecting user privacy and handling data responsibly is a top priority for the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website. This section outlines the types of information collected, how it is used, and the safeguards in place to protect user data.
Information We May Collect
We may collect various types of information, including:
- Personal Information: Names, email addresses, phone numbers, and property details voluntarily provided by users.
- Technical Information: IP addresses, browser type, device information, and website usage data collected automatically.
- Submission Data: Information provided through forms, applications, and other online interactions.
This data helps the office improve services, process applications, and ensure website functionality.
Use of Cookies & Analytics
The website uses cookies and analytics tools to:
- Track website performance and usage patterns.
- Enhance user experience and personalize content.
- Identify technical issues and optimize website features.
Users can manage cookies through browser settings or opt-out tools for third-party analytics.
How We Handle Your Data
Collected data is:
- Stored securely using encryption and internal access restrictions.
- Used responsibly only for legitimate purposes such as service delivery, legal compliance, or improving website functionality.
- Shared selectively only with authorized personnel or trusted third-party service providers when necessary.
Refer to Our Privacy Policy for Full Details
For comprehensive information on how your personal and property-related data is collected, used, and protected, please refer to our full Privacy Policy, which provides detailed guidance on user rights, data control options, and contact information for privacy concerns.
Governing Law & Dispute Resolution
These Terms & Conditions, as well as your use of the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website and services, are governed by the laws of the State of Florida. Users agree to abide by Florida law for all matters related to website access, property data, applications, and tools. This section outlines the rules for resolving disputes, legal remedies, and limitations to ensure clarity, fairness, and efficient handling of any issues that may arise.
Jurisdiction – State of Florida
All legal claims, disputes, or actions arising from your use of the website or reliance on information provided therein shall be exclusively governed by Florida state law. By accessing this site, you consent to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of the courts located in Sarasota County, Florida, for any disputes that cannot be resolved through alternative methods. This ensures that all matters are handled consistently with local laws and regulations governing property appraisal, taxation, and public records.
Legal Remedies and Arbitration
Users agree to pursue disputes under the following framework:
- Informal Resolution First: Before initiating formal legal proceedings, users are encouraged to contact the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office to resolve concerns, clarify information, or correct errors.
- Binding Arbitration: If disputes cannot be resolved informally, they may be subject to binding arbitration under Florida law, except where arbitration is prohibited by applicable statutes. Arbitration offers a faster, more efficient, and less costly alternative to traditional litigation, providing both parties with a structured method for dispute resolution.
- Scope of Arbitration: Arbitration may cover disputes related to website use, access to property records, errors in information, or services provided online. Both parties agree to adhere to the arbitrator’s decisions, which are final and legally binding.
Waiver of Class Actions
By using this website, users expressly agree to waive any right to participate in class-action lawsuits or any consolidated legal proceedings involving multiple claimants against the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office. Each user must pursue claims individually. This limitation is intended to:
- Ensure efficient dispute resolution.
- Protect the integrity of website services and resources.
- Reduce legal costs and administrative burdens on all parties involved.
Users should understand that this waiver does not limit individual rights to seek resolution but requires that disputes be handled on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with Florida law.
Changes to Terms & Conditions
The Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office may update or modify these Terms & Conditions at any time to reflect changes in laws, website features, or operational policies. It is the responsibility of users to remain informed of any updates, as continued use of the website constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
Right to Modify Terms
The Property Appraiser’s Office reserves the right to modify, add, or remove provisions of these Terms & Conditions at any time. Changes may be necessary to:
- Comply with new or updated federal, state, or local laws and regulations.
- Improve website functionality, user experience, or security measures.
- Reflect updated policies regarding property records, tax filings, or online services.
All modifications are effective immediately upon posting to the website unless otherwise stated.
Notification of Changes
Significant changes to the Terms & Conditions will be communicated through:
- Website notices or banners highlighting updates.
- Updated “Last Revised” dates at the top or bottom of the Terms & Conditions page.
Users are encouraged to periodically review this page to remain aware of changes that may affect their rights, responsibilities, and access to services.
Your Responsibility to Stay Informed
By using the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website, you agree that it is your responsibility to stay informed of all updates or modifications to the Terms & Conditions. Continued access and use of the website after changes have been posted indicates your acceptance of the updated terms. If you do not agree with the revised Terms & Conditions, you must cease using the website and its services immediately.
Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or require clarification regarding these Terms & Conditions, the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office is available to provide assistance. We encourage users to reach out with inquiries to ensure proper understanding and compliance with website policies and legal requirements.
Questions About These Terms
Users may contact the Property Appraiser’s Office for guidance on:
- Understanding any clause or provision within the Terms & Conditions.
- Clarifying permitted and prohibited website uses.
- Resolving concerns regarding intellectual property, privacy, or legal disclaimers.
- Reporting violations or suspicious activity related to the website.
Our staff is committed to providing timely and accurate responses to ensure a safe, transparent, and legally compliant user experience.
Contact Information
You can reach the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office using the following methods:
- Phone: 941-861-8200
- Email: PA@sc-pa.com
- Fax: 941-861-8260
- Office Address:
Sarasota County Property Appraiser
2001 Adams Lane
Sarasota, FL 34237 - Online Contact Form: Available on the official website for submitting questions or concerns regarding these Terms & Conditions.
Please include detailed information in your inquiry, such as your property details or the specific issue, to help staff respond efficiently and accurately.