Public Improvement Districts (PIDs)

PIDs are created by the City of Houston to provide limited special services and improvements above and beyond what is normally provided by the City. Examples include landscaping, parking, enhanced security and marketing.

Property owners in the PID pay special property assessments into a fund administered by the City in conjunction with an advisory body. A City Council approved service plan is established for a period of five years and can be renewed for five-year periods thereafter.

PIDs can be used in conjunction with tax increment reinvestment zones.

Who can apply?

Property owners can apply. Community based organizations could assist or become an advisory body for property owners petitioning for PID status. PIDs are most suitable for areas where property owners have the financial ability to pay for improvements through additional tax assessments.

What are the requirements?

Creation of a PID requires:
A submission of a petition to the City Secretary, signed by owners of at least 50% of the appraised value of taxable real property, and at least one of the following:

1. 50% of the number of property owners in the proposed district, or

2. Owners of at least 50% of the land area

In addition, the following must be submitted:

• a legal description (with maps) of the proposed boundaries of the district;

• a detailed service plan that covers a period of at least five (5) years, defining the annual debt and projected improvement costs;

• an assessment plan that states the method of assessment and specifics included and excluded classes of property; and

• a public hearing held after notice period of 15 days.

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