Access to Information and Protection of Privacy

Clearwater County is committed to transparency, accountability, and the responsible management of personal information.

On June 11, 2025, Alberta's Access to Information Act (ATIA) and Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) came into force, replacing the former Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP).

These Acts give individuals the right to access records held by Clearwater County, while balancing the need to protect privacy and sensitive information. 


How to Request Access to Information

Many County records are already publicly available (e.g., Council agendas, bylaws, financial reports, and planning documents). If the information you need is not routinely available, you can submit a formal request under the Access to Information Act. 

To submit a request: 

  1. Complete the Request to Access Information form 
  2. Pay the $25 application fee (wiaved for requests for your own personal information)
  3. Submit by email to privacyofficer@clearwatercounty.ca or in person/by mail to the address below.

Additional fees may apply for processing. The County will respond within the timelies set by the Act. 


Request to Correct Your Personal Information

You have the right to request correction of your personal information if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete. Contact Clearwater County's Privacy Officer with your request by calling the main County office at 403-845-4444 or email privacyofficer@clearwatercounty.ca.


Privacy Management Program (PMP)

Under the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA), Clearwater County is required to maintain a Privacy Management Program. This program consists of policies, procedures, and practices designed to ensure we collect, use, disclose, and protect personal information responsibly and in full compliance with the law.

Our Privacy Management Program is scaled to the volume and sensitivity of personal information we handle and is reviewed regularly.

Key Elements of Clearwater County’s Privacy Management Program include:

  • Designation of a Privacy Officer responsible for privacy compliance
  • Documented policies and procedures for:
    • Access to information and correction requests
    • Privacy Incident (Breach) response and notification
    • Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) for new programs or services
    • Secure collection, use, disclosure, retention, and disposal of personal information
    • Use of automated decision-making systems and data matching (where permitted)
  • Security safeguards and classification of information
  • Mandatory staff training on privacy obligations
  • Processes for handling privacy complaints
  • Regular review and updating of the program

View Clearwater County’s Privacy Management Program here (click the image below.)

Clearwater County's Privacy Management Plan


Privacy Incidents and Complaints

If you believe your personal information held by Clearwater County has been lost, stolen, or improperly accessed, please contact us immediately.

We investigate all privacy incidents and notify affected individuals and the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta (OIPC) where required.

For general privacy complaints or concerns, contact us first. Unresolved matters can be escalated to the OIPC.


Contact Us

Access and Privacy Coordinator / Privacy Officer 

Clearwater County's Main Administration Building
Box 550 - 4340 47 Avenue
Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1A4
Phone: 403-845-4444
Fax: 403-845-7330
E-mail: privacyofficer@clearwatercounty.ca (preferred for access requests)



Additional Resources

Be Prepared!
Be Prepared!