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SubjectsPlanning › Geographic Information Systems
Updated 12/2012

Geographic Information Systems

Contents

Introduction

Geographic information systems (GIS) are computer-based systems used to store, display, and analyze geographically referenced data, i.e., data identified according to their locations. GIS are also defined as computer-based mapping and information systems that enable the user to analyze geographic data in a variety of ways. GIS have a wide variety of applications for public works, planning and permitting, public safety, and other local government activities.

If you have information to share or are aware of other Web sites that we should link to, please contact Carol Tobin, Planning Consultant at ctobin@mrsc.org, or call (206) 625-1300.

Basic GIS Information

Washington County and City GIS Services

The following are examples of GIS services offered by Washington local governments. These include interactive Web-based maps and maps and geographic data available for download. For a more complete list of GIS websites, see GIS Websites and Online Mapping Systems - Washington Cities and Counties, MRSC.

Internet GIS Viewer

  • Ferndale - GIS Viewer
  • King County
    • Parcel Viewer - Interactive Property Research - Basic Assessor's data
    • iMap - Interactive Mapping Tool 
  • NWMaps - Access to map-based information from Bellevue, Bothell, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Renton, Sammamish, Shoreline, Snoqualmie, Tukwila and Woodinville, provided by eCityGov Alliance
  • Pierce County Neighborhood Crime Map
  • Seattle
    • Department of Planning and Development
      • DPD GIS - Interactive maps using Seattle GIS data and Microsoft Virtual Earth. Includes option to click a parcel to view the parcel data.
      • DPD Activity Locator - View permitting activity in Seattle from July 2005 to present, using Microsoft Virtual Earth
    • My Neighborhood Map - Services and crime statistics by area
  • Spokane
  • Spokane County - SCOUT - Interactive mapping application
  • Tacoma - govMe Map
  • Walla Walla County - Interactive Map

Map Downloads

GIS Data Downloads

Other GIS Services

Documents

The following are sample GIS agreements, ordinances, RFPs, and forms from Washington jurisdictions.

Washington State GIS

Public Disclosure GIS Issues

Need more information?

Feel free to Ask MRSC. Washington cities, counties, and our contract partners can call or email MRSC for more information and advice - free of charge.