The Vista Irrigation District (district) has received two major statewide honors: the District of Distinction award and the Transparency Certificate of Excellence.

The District of Distinction recognition is awarded by the Special District Leadership Foundation to special districts that show their commitment to good governance, transparency, prudent fiscal policies and sound operating practices. The district originally obtained its accreditation in 2009 and just received its most recent reaccreditation. The district is one of only twenty-six Districts of Distinction statewide.

In addition to the District of Distinction award, the district also received the Transparency Certificate of Excellence, in recognition of its efforts to promote transparency in operations and governance to the public. There are approximately one hundred special districts in the state that have received this certificate.

Both the District of Distinction and Transparency Certificate of Excellence awards require the District to meet numerous criteria, including training elected officials and staff, adopting financial policies, properly conducting and communicating open and public meetings, performing outreach efforts to constituents, and meeting fifteen different website requirements.

There are over 2,300 independent special districts in the state of California that provide essential services such as water, sewer, fire protection, and parks and recreation.