Holiday closure Monday May 28: Most county offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.
Office of Citizen Complaints — Ombudsman
516 Third Ave, Rm W1039 
Seattle, WA 98104

206.205-6338 voice | TTY
206.296-0948 fax

ombudsman
@kingcounty.gov

Whistleblower Safeguards

The Whistleblower Protection Code (KCC 3.42) is an avenue for King County employees to report suspected improper governmental action. Improper governmental action means any action by a county employee while performing official duties that also meets one of the following criteria:
  • violates county, state or federal law or rule, or;
  • constitutes an abuse of authority, or;
  • constitutes gross mismanagement, or;
  • creates a substantial danger to the public health or safety, or;
  • results in a gross waste of public funds, or;
  • prevents the dissemination of scientific opinion or alters technical findings without scientifically valid justification.

Employees who in good faith report improper governmental action, or who cooperate in a whistleblower investigation, are protected from retaliation.

Where to report varies depending upon the type of improper governmental action. Employees are encouraged to contact the Ombudsman’s Office before filing a whistleblower or retaliation complaint. 

Whistleblower guide (PDF)

Whistleblower brochure (PDF) 

Download a PDF of the Whistleblower Protection Code Summary 

Download a PDF of the Whistleblower Complaint Form 

Download a PDF of the Whistleblower Retaliation Complaint Form

Alternate formats for persons with disabilities available upon request.

photo: man looking out window