Parking & Business Improvement Area (PBIA)

What is a PBIA?

A Parking and Business Improvement Area (PBIA) assesses a fee to businesses within a given area and returns those funds to the business community in the form of neighborhood improvements and promotional opportunities. In Snohomish, PBIA fees are collected by the City of Snohomish and then distributed to the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association (HDSA) for their management. For more information, please visit their website or contact the Executive Director. 

The purpose of this agreement is to set forth the essential elements of a cooperative working relationship between the City and HDSA to promote economic development and neighborhood revitalization in the Historic Business District (HBD); to assist trade, economic viability, and livability and for the purpose of financing improvements of the City's residential and business areas; and to meet City Council priorities to "promote and expand economic adaptability, vitality, and diversity," and "preserve and enhance Snohomish's quality of life."

What does HDSA use PBIA funds for?

PBIA funds support projects and initiatives such as

  • Beautifying public spaces with decorations, landscaping, and maintenance
  • Hosting and promoting events that drive foot traffic to businesses
  • Supporting safety and security measures in shared areas
  • Providing professional management and stewardship of the downtown district
  • Strategic marketing to promote downtown Snohomish as a destination and attract customers
  • Business advocacy to represent and support the interests of local businesses
  • Economic development efforts to drive growth and sustainability for downtown retailers

PBIA ratepayers are also gifted basic membership in HDSA (register here). For more information about current projects, initiatives, or additional membership opportunities, please contact HDSA directly.

Is my business located within the PBIA?

In Snohomish, the PBIA is congruous with the Historic Business District (HBD). If you're unsure whether your business is within the PBIA/HBD, please enter your business address into the search bar of our interactive zoning map. If the parcel is pale pink, it's in the PBIA/HBD.

How do I pay my PBIA fee?

Businesses located within the PBIA are assessed a PBIA fee on an annual basis, which is separate from your business license fee. Please note that you will be invoiced for the PBIA fee directly by the City, not the Washington Department of Revenue (where you pay your business license fee). 

Beginning in 2025, all businesses subject to the PBIA fee will be billed a flat fee of $150. To pay, return the invoice or pay online.