Who We Are

The Downtown Santa Barbara Community Benefit Improvement District (DSBIA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to creatively planning, managing, and revitalizing our historic downtown core. 

Formed through a unified vision of local stakeholders, the CBID funds and directs special benefits that address cleanliness, safety, beautification, and economic vitality. All operations are financed through annual assessments on privately owned property within the district, pooled to provide a level of service that goes above and beyond basic City offerings. Our goal is to ensure a clean, safe, and vibrant downtown experience for every visitor, resident, and business owner.

The DSBIA is:

• The Caretaker of downtown’s public spaces and historic paseos.
• A Destination Marketer building a strong, cohesive brand for the district.
• A Public Policy Advocate for property owners and business leaders.
• A Safety & Outreach Partner providing professional ambassadors and homelessness resources.
• A Special Events Promoter creating signature cultural activations and holiday traditions.

Quick Links & Resources

For those looking for technical details, governing documents, or deeper background on our formation, please see the resources below:

• 2024 Management District Plan (PDF) – The full roadmap for our district’s services, budget, and governance.
• District FAQ Document (PDF) – A comprehensive guide to common questions regarding assessments and services.
• 2025 Annual Report (PDF) – A summary of our first year of impact and program implementation.

Governance & District Boundaries

The district is led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing a diverse cross-section of downtown stakeholders—including property owners, merchants, and community residents. Our geographic boundaries generally span from Micheltorena to Gutierrez and Anacapa to Chapala Streets, encompassing the heart of the historic State Street corridor.

Have questions about the CBID?

Our staff is here to help property owners and tenants understand how to make the most of district services.