Privacy Policy
1. Introduction
Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) respects the privacy of visitors to our website (pcwa.net) and online services. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use and protect it, and the choices available to you. As a public agency, we aim to use clear language while meeting applicable legal requirements.
By using our website, you agree to the practices described in this policy.
2. Information We Collect
We collect information in the following ways:
Information you provide directly
If you complete a form on our site—such as a contact form, service request, program enrollment, or newsletter sign-up—we collect the information you submit (for example: name, email address, phone number, service address, account number, and the content of your message).
Information collected automatically
When you visit our site, we and our service providers may automatically collect certain information, such as your IP address, browser type, device identifiers, pages viewed, referring/exit pages, and timestamps. We use this information to operate, secure, and improve our website.
Cookies and similar technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to remember preferences and understand how visitors use our site. You can manage cookies through your browser settings. See Cookies & Analytics for details.
We do not collect sensitive personal information via the public website unless you choose to provide it in a form field or as required by law for a service.
We do not collect information from third parties. All information we receive is provided directly by visitors through forms or automatically through basic analytics tools.
3. How We Use Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide requested services, information, and support.
- Operate, maintain, and improve our website and online services.
- Respond to inquiries, service requests, and feedback.
- Send notices or updates you opt in to receive (e.g., newsletters and SMS text messages).
- Detect, prevent, and address technical issues and security incidents.
- Comply with legal obligations and public records requirements.
We do not sell personal information. We also do not share personal information for cross-context behavioral advertising.
5. SMS Text Messaging (Zoom & 10DLC)
PCWA may use Zoom’s SMS capabilities to send text messages related to service updates, customer communications, or information you request. We will only send SMS messages if you provide your phone number and consent to receive texts. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply.
By providing a telephone number and submitting a form on our website, you acknowledge our Privacy Policy and consent to receive SMS text messages from PCWA for the stated purpose. You can opt out at any time by replying STOP. For assistance, reply HELP.
Mobile information privacy. No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. All other data sharing categories exclude text messaging originator opt‑in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
If we include URLs in SMS, they will direct you to PCWA pages or trusted resources relevant to your request. PCWA does not send age‑gated content or lending/loan offers via SMS.
6. How We Protect Information
We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect the information we collect. While we strive to protect your information, no method of transmission over the Internet or method of electronic storage is 100% secure.
Retention. We retain information only as long as necessary for the purposes described in this policy, to meet legal or operational requirements, or as required under the California Public Records Act. When no longer required, we delete or anonymize information, or securely store it until deletion is possible.
7. Your Rights & Choices (California)
California residents may have rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (as amended by the CPRA), including the right to know, correct, and delete certain personal information we maintain about you, and the right to be free from unlawful discrimination for exercising these rights.
- Right to Know/Access: Request information about the categories and specific pieces of personal information we collected about you.
- Right to Delete: Request deletion of personal information, subject to legal exceptions.
- Right to Correct: Request that we correct inaccurate personal information.
- Right to Opt-Out of Sale/Sharing: We do not sell personal information or share it for cross-context behavioral advertising.
To exercise these rights, contact us using the methods on our Contact Us page. We will verify your request consistent with applicable law (for example, by confirming information you already provided) and respond within the timeframes required by law.
Authorized agents may submit requests on your behalf with written permission.
To submit a privacy request, email customerservices@pcwa.net with “Privacy Request” in the subject line.
Do Not Track. Our site does not respond to browser "Do Not Track" signals. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser and the Google Analytics opt-out noted above.
8. Children’s Privacy
Our website is intended for a general audience and not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 via the website. If you believe a child has provided us personal information, please contact us so we can take appropriate action.
9. Links to Other Websites
Our site may link to third-party websites or services we do not operate. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party site you visit.
10. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we make changes, we will revise the “Effective Date” above. Your continued use of the site after changes are posted means you accept those changes.
11. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your privacy rights, please visit our Contact Us page or reach out using one of the methods below.
- Email: customerservices@pcwa.net
- Phone: (530) 823-4850
- Mailing Address: 144 Ferguson Road, Auburn, CA 95603
For public records requests under the California Public Records Act, please use our Public Records Request Form (PDF).
Please do not include sensitive personal information in form submissions unless specifically requested for a service. Public records laws may require that certain communications be retained and disclosed upon request.