Types of Special Assessment Districts

PERMANENT ROAD DIVISIONS:  

These districts let property owners improve and maintain roads in their area, as long as certain rules are met. Forming a district usually takes 12 to 18 months and must follow State law. At least one road must connect to a public road.

Property owners share the cost based on the benefit they receive. Loans may be available to help pay for projects. Most owners must agree before the district can be formed.

COUNTY SERVICE AREAS: 

These districts fund services not related to roads. This can include parks, fire prevention, and emergency medical services.

Forming a district usually takes two to three years. It must be reviewed and approved by LAFCO. Most property owners need to support it.

STREET LIGHTING DISTRICT: 

This district funds street lighting, including installation, operation, and maintenance and was created under State law.

There are two zones:

  • Zone A: Properties that pay for lighting
  • Zone B: Properties that do not pay

Zone B may include undeveloped land or older areas. These areas can move to Zone A through annexation.

STORMWATER MAINTENANCE ZONES: 

These zones fund the upkeep of stormwater facilities, which help protect water quality.

The San Diego County Flood Control District maintains them to protect the public and the environment.

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT: 

These zones fund the care of public spaces. This includes landscaped areas, parks, trails, and open space.

These districts maintain facilities that are already built and meet County standards.

OTHER ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS: 

These districts fund many types of public projects. This includes roads, parks, open space, street lighting, and other public improvements.

The County must follow State law to create a district. All districts must also follow Proposition 218, the “Right to Vote on Taxes Act.”

GENERAL INFORMATION:

Property owners often create districts to pay for costly public projects.

It usually takes about two years to form a district. The process can be expensive and large or complex districts may take longer.

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