GIS Center
The King County GIS Center provides geographic information system (GIS) services, mapping tools, and spatial data resources for King County government agencies, regional partners, and the public. This article explains what the GIS Center does, how residents can access official mapping applications and data resources, how property research tools work, and where to contact the office for GIS-related services.
King County GIS Center Overview
The King County GIS Center manages the King County Geographic Information System (KCGIS), an enterprise GIS that supports multiple county departments and provides access to geographic information resources. The center provides GIS leadership, coordination, infrastructure, and services designed to support the information needs of King County government, the Puget Sound region, and other customers.
The GIS Center works with county departments to coordinate GIS activities, manage core GIS systems, support GIS data maintenance, and provide technical guidance. Its services help organizations use location-based information for mapping, analysis, planning, and operational needs.
The official King County GIS Center website provides access to GIS resources, applications, data information, and service details. Many public-facing GIS resources are also available through the King County State of GIS hub site.
GIS Services and Responsibilities
The GIS Center supports the development and operation of countywide GIS resources. Its work includes managing shared GIS infrastructure, coordinating GIS activities across departments, and maintaining systems that provide access to geographic information.
The center’s responsibilities include:
Managing coordination of GIS activities across King County departments.
Providing guidance, expertise, and oversight for the King County GIS community.
Administering the core KCGIS database and system components.
Supporting countywide GIS hardware and software coordination.
Supporting maintenance of core GIS data by county departments.
Developing and maintaining GIS data and application resources.
The GIS Center also provides technical services through its Spatial Services Group. These services support GIS projects, consulting needs, data development, mapping, analysis, training, and application work.
Public GIS Maps and Applications
Residents and organizations can access several online mapping applications created with King County GIS resources. These tools allow users to view geographic information, search locations, review property-related information, and explore county data.
The Maps and Apps collection includes popular GIS applications such as iMap and Parcel Viewer, along with additional county mapping resources.
King County iMap
iMap is an interactive mapping application that allows users to view King County spatial information, GIS data, and map imagery. Users can customize map displays by selecting information layers and adjusting the map view based on their research needs.
The King County iMap application provides geographic information related to topics such as real property, natural resources, political boundaries, planning information, and other countywide features.
Users can search iMap in several ways, including:
Street addresses.
Parcel numbers.
Street intersections.
Common destinations and landmarks.
After locating an area, users can explore available map layers through the Layer List. Layers can be displayed or hidden depending on the type of information needed. Users can also change basemaps to view different background options, including standard maps, aerial imagery, topographic information, and hillshade views.
Searching Locations in iMap
The Basic Search feature in iMap helps users locate addresses, parcels, intersections, and places. When entering an address, the system may provide matching options from the King County location database.
For property-related searches, users can search for an address or parcel number and then select a parcel on the map to view available property information. The parcel layer is available when iMap launches, allowing users to identify property boundaries and related map information.
Users should remember that map layers must be turned on at both the group and individual layer levels. If a selected layer does not appear, the layer group visibility may need to be enabled, or the map may need to be zoomed closer because some detailed layers only display at certain scales.
Parcel Information Tools
The GIS Center provides mapping tools that help users research parcel information. These tools are designed for locating properties and connecting users with related county property information systems.
Parcel Viewer Features
King County Parcel Viewer allows users to search parcel information through an interactive map. Users can search by address, search by parcel number, or select a parcel directly from the map.
After selecting a parcel, users can access links to related property reports, including the King County Assessor’s eReal Property report and the Districts and Development Conditions report.
Parcel numbers are unique identifiers for properties in King County. A parcel number is also known as a PIN, or parcel identification number. Users researching property information should have the correct address or parcel number available to improve search accuracy.
Property Research Resources
The GIS Center provides several tools for property research through its Property Research resources. These resources include mapping tools, reports, and documents that help users locate and review property-related information.
Available property research options include:
iMap for viewing and printing customized map displays.
Parcel Viewer for locating parcels and retrieving related reports.
eReal Property resources from the Department of Assessments.
Districts and Development Conditions reports.
The property research tools allow users to review geographic information connected to parcels, including zoning-related information, planning areas, district boundaries, and other spatial information where available through county systems.
GIS Data Access
GIS data includes information connected to geographic locations. The GIS Center provides access to geospatial data used for creating maps and analyzing location-based information.
The King County GIS Data resources provide information about available geospatial data sources maintained, supported, or published by King County GIS.
GIS data can help users understand geographic relationships, patterns, and conditions across communities and areas within King County. Data resources include information connected to county programs and services, including available datasets and data distribution options.
Custom GIS Data Orders
The GIS Center provides custom data services for requests involving GIS information that may not be available through standard online resources. Custom GIS services can include GIS data development, data exchange, and specialized data products.
Requests for custom GIS data are handled through GIS Center services and may involve staff time and materials depending on the project requirements.
GIS Consulting and Training Services
The GIS Center Spatial Services Group provides GIS-related services for internal and external clients. These services support organizations that need GIS expertise, project assistance, technical support, or specialized mapping products.
Examples of Spatial Services offerings include:
GIS consulting and needs analysis.
GIS system planning and implementation support.
GIS database design and maintenance.
GIS application development.
GIS mapping and spatial analysis.
Custom cartographic product development.
GIS data development and maintenance.
GIS training and technical support.
The GIS Center also provides training resources through its GIS Training Program, including GIS classes, custom training options, and educational resources available through county GIS programs.
Preparing for GIS Requests
Users requesting GIS assistance or researching information through GIS tools should prepare details that help identify the location or data needed. The information required depends on the type of request.
For property research, useful information includes:
A property address.
A parcel number or PIN.
The specific type of property information needed.
For GIS data or consulting requests, users should be prepared to describe the geographic area, type of information needed, and the intended use of the GIS resource.
Common GIS User Mistakes
GIS tools provide extensive information, but users may encounter problems when searching without the correct location details or when viewing the wrong map layers.
Common issues include:
Using an incorrect address or parcel number during a search.
Assuming a hidden map layer is unavailable instead of checking layer settings.
Viewing a map at a scale where detailed information does not display.
Confusing general GIS information with official records maintained by other county departments.
When researching property information, users should confirm that the selected parcel matches the location they need before reviewing related reports.
GIS Center Contact Information
The King County GIS Center provides assistance for GIS-related questions and services. The office can help direct users to appropriate GIS resources, applications, and service options.
Relevant Departments and Offices
King County GIS Center
201 S Jackson St KSC-IT-225
Seattle, WA 98104
giscenter@kingcounty.gov
GIS Center FAQs
How can I find the right King County map application for my needs?
King County provides different online mapping applications depending on the type of information you need. The Maps and Apps collection includes tools for viewing geographic information, exploring county maps, and accessing specialized applications. Users looking for a general interactive map can use iMap, while users researching property parcels may find Parcel Viewer more suitable.
What should I do if I cannot find information in a King County map?
If a map does not display the information you expect, check the available map settings and layers. Some information may require selecting the correct layer group or adjusting the map view to a more detailed scale. The King County iMap application allows users to customize displayed information, search locations, and view different types of spatial information based on their research needs.
How can I use King County GIS tools for property research?
Property research can be started with address information or a parcel number. King County Parcel Viewer allows users to search by address, search by parcel number, or select a parcel directly on the map. After selecting a parcel, users can access related property reports and information connected to that location.
Where can I find King County GIS data resources?
Users who need geographic datasets can explore the King County GIS Data resources. Available data resources include information sources supported or published through King County GIS programs. These resources are useful for users who need location-based information for research, mapping projects, or analysis.
What resources are available for learning more about King County GIS tools?
Users can explore additional applications, data resources, initiatives, and learning materials through the King County State of GIS site. This resource provides access to GIS-related information, applications, and county resources for people who want to better understand available mapping tools and data options.