In general a special-purpose district is a government district differing from general-purpose districts like municipalities, counties, etc., in that they serve a special purpose only. A good example of a special-purpose district would be a school district. Special districts are sometimes created to provide fire protection or sewers, or to manage water resources. In many states in the USA, school districts manage the schools. These districts are usually much more flexible than more geographically determined municipalities.

There are two types of special-purpose districts. Some are independent, in that they are allowed to tax, and others are dependent in that they receive funding only from user fee s or from other governments.

Examples

• Los Angeles Community College District, California
• Metropolitan School District of Perry Township, Indianapolis, Indiana
• Reedy Creek Improvement District, Florida

See also

• business improvement district
• interstate compact
• municipality
• off-budget enterprise
• political science
• quasi-autonomous non-government organisation
• residential community association
• United States federal judicial district