The Vista Irrigation District (district) has received two major statewide honors: the District of Distinction award and the Transparency Certificate of Excellence.  Additionally, board of director Patrick Sanchez received Recognition in Special District Governance.

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 thirty-three (33) 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 one hundred and fifteen (115) special districts in the state that have received this certificate.

There are over 2,000 independent special districts in the state of California that provide essential services such as water, sewer, fire protection, and parks and recreation.