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San José AI Guidelines and Policies

San José’s AI Policy 

The City's official AI Policy (City Policy Manual 1.7.12) sets the ground rules for how City staff can use AI. It’s all about: 

  • Being transparent: We’ll let you know when AI is used 

  • Protecting privacy: We don’t put personal or private info into AI systems 

  • Making sure AI is fair: We watch out for bias and test the tools 

  • Staying accountable: Staff are responsible for what AI creates 

Learn more: View the AI Policy online

Generative AI Guidelines 

When using Generative AI, like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, create content from text, voice, or images. San José has set generative AI guidelines for using these tools.

Here’s what you should know: 

  • All content is checked by staff before being shared with the public. 

  • We cite AI-generated content to build trust with residents. 

  • We track how staff use AI to improve training and safety. 

  • We use AI responsibly to reduce environmental impact. 

City employees must report if they use Generative AI to the City’s Privacy and AI team through the Generative AI Form. 

AI Risk Levels for Generative AI 

 

Risk Level

What It Means

Example Uses

Low Risk

No private info, for internal drafts

Writing internal emails

Medium Risk

Needs careful review, public-facing

Drafting a City memo

High Risk

Could affect people’s rights or safety

Hiring decisions, legal info – not allowed without special approval

City of San José staff do not let AI make actionable decisions, like approving a job application or responding to emergencies. The City will always promote a people first approach when it comes to our residents. 

Buying AI Tools 

Before San José buys or uses any new AI tool, we: 

  • Review the tool’s privacy, security, and fairness 

  • Make sure it follows the City’s AI Policy 

  • Approve it through the Information Technology Department (ITD) 

This helps keep your information safe and ensures City services stay fair for everyone. 

 

AI Informational Webinars

Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 Webinar

Join the City of San José’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) webinar to learn what AI is, how it’s being used to improve City services, and how we’re keeping privacy a top priority. We’ll share real examples and offer tips on how you can safely and responsibly use AI technologies. 

Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025 

6:30-7:30 p.m. 

Zoom Registration: bit.ly/3Wh3r8h 

Language interpretation will be provided. 

Presentations

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 Webinar (English)

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 Webinar (Español)

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 Webinar (Tiếng Việt)

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 Webinar (中文)