Authorizations for dignitary protection
Seattle Mun. Code ch. 14.12, subch. V, § 14.12.230
in effect14.12.230 - Authorizations for dignitary protection
A. The Chief of the Department may authorize the collection of restricted information when there is a reasonable suspicion that the subject of the restricted information could pose a threat to the life or safety of a visiting official or dignitary. When time is of the essence, an authorization may be requested and given orally, but the authorization shall be reduced to writing within two working days. An authorization under this Section 14.12.230 shall limit the use of the restricted information collected to dignitary protection purposes, unless an authorization granted under Sections 14.12.150, 14.12.160, or 14.12.170 allows the information to be used for a criminal investigation.
B. An authorization for dignitary protection shall include:
1. The identity of the subject about whom the restricted information will be collected, if known;
2. The name of the visiting official or dignitary to be protected and his or her anticipated date of arrival;
3. An explanation of the restricted information likely to be sought;
4. The facts and circumstances that provide the Chief of the Department a reasonable suspicion that the subject of the restricted information could pose a threat to the life or safety of a visiting official or dignitary; and
5. If an informant or infiltrator will be used to gather restricted information, the reasons why the use of an informant or infiltrator is deemed necessary for dignitary protection.
C. Notice of each authorization shall be given to the Auditor.
D. The collection of restricted information pursuant to an authorization for dignitary protection shall be limited to the scope stated in the authorization.
(Ord. 110640, § 12, 1982; Ord. 110572, § 22, 1982; Ord. 108333, § 21, 1979.)
Source: City of Seattle, Seattle Municipal Code and City Charter (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/wa/seattle/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT14HURI_CH14.12COINLAENPU_SUBCHAPTER_VHAREINPRDI_14.12.230AUDIPRFetched: 11/1/2026