Business Improvement Areas

Business Improvement Areas 101:

BIAs are conceived, designed, and managed locally by those who are paying the assessments.

• Everyone in the district is required to pay their fair share. The funds collected are used to provide services for the mutual benefit of the businesses and/or properties being assessed. 
• Each BIA is governed by a ratepayer's advisory board that are responsible for creating bylaws and making key decisions on programs and services, budgets, goals, policies, and staffing. 
• The City collects the assessments on behalf of the BIA and reimburses monthly expenses.
• The Citywide BIA Policies provide guidance for existing and potential BIAs.

BIAs may use their funds for the following kinds of services:

• Clean and Safe Programs
• Marketing and Promotion
• Business and Economic Development
• Public Realm Improvements and Planning
• Advocacy
• Professional Management and Organizational Development

It is important to note that BIA services are supplemental to City services and are not intended to displace any service that is currently being provided. 

Additional help and resources:

• Business districts interested in learning about creating a BIA or revising an existing BIA, can apply through OED's annual Only in Seattle Initiative Request for Applications (RFA) process to work with experienced City staff and consultants.
• For general BIA questions, please contact BIA Policy Advisor Casey Rogers at casey.rogers@seattle.gov or (206) 665-1002.
• For questions about your BIA assessments, please contact the BIA Administrator at bia.administrator@seattle.gov or (206) 233-7172.
• Read the 2019 Seattle BIA Report.

BIA Ordinances: