Explore Waukegan Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Last updated: October 6, 2026
Explore Waukegan is the visitor website of the City of Waukegan, Illinois ("the City," "we," "us"). This policy explains what information we collect when you visit Explore Waukegan, how we use it, and the choices you have. By using this website, you agree to the practices described here.
Information we collect
Information you give us. You can browse Explore Waukegan without telling us who you are. If you contact us or submit a form on this site, we collect what you choose to provide, such as your name, email address, phone number, and message.
Information collected automatically. Like most websites, our web servers automatically record basic technical information when you visit. This includes your IP address, browser type, device type, the pages you view, the date and time of your visit, and the page that referred you to us. We also use analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, to understand how visitors use the site in aggregate.
Cookies. Cookies are small files stored on your device. We and our service providers use cookies and similar technologies to keep the site working, to understand how it is used, and to protect forms from spam. You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings. Some features of the site may not work properly if you do.
How we use information
We use the information we collect to:
- Respond to your questions and requests
- Operate, maintain and improve the website
- Understand which pages and events are most useful to visitors
- Protect the site and its forms from spam, abuse and security threats
- Meet our legal obligations as a public body
We do not sell your personal information, and we do not use it for third-party advertising.
Third-party services
Explore Waukegan uses trusted service providers to run the site. These include our web host, analytics tools, anti-spam protection for forms, and embedded Google Maps. These providers may receive technical information, such as your IP address, when you load a page or use a feature. Their handling of that information is governed by their own privacy policies.
The site also links to other websites, including local businesses, event organizers, hotels, partner organizations, and social media pages. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies before sharing information with them.
Public records
The City of Waukegan is a public body subject to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140). Information you send to the City, including messages submitted through this website, may be considered a public record. It may be disclosed if requested, unless an exemption under state law applies. Please do not send sensitive personal information, such as Social Security or financial account numbers, through this website.
Data retention and security
We keep information only as long as needed for the purposes described in this policy, or as required by the Illinois Local Records Act and other applicable law. We use reasonable administrative and technical safeguards to protect information. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure.
Children's privacy
Explore Waukegan is a general-audience website and is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us, and we will take steps to delete it.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy from time to time. When we do, we will post the revised version on this page and update the "Last updated" date above.
Contact us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact:
City of Waukegan: 100 N Martin Luther King Jr.
Avenue, Waukegan, IL 60085
Phone: 847-599-2500
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except legal holidays