You shop and work here, get your books from the library, and picnic in City parks. Sierra Vista is your home town, so make it official by annexing into the City and enjoy the perks of being a City resident.

City residents enjoy lower property taxes, urban police and fire protection, and a voice in local government.

Lower Annual Property Taxes

Being a city resident will save you money on your property taxes. For example, using the 2020 property tax rates, a home assessed at $125,000 in the County will pay $1,741 while the same house in the City limits pays $1,355.

Enjoy a Better Neighborhood

The City's Code Enforcement team enforces the City's property maintenance codes, resulting in cleaner, more attractive neighborhoods.

Urban Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Response

You’ll have access to a full range of services provided by Sierra Vista Fire & Medical Services. They offer quick response time with state-of-the-art medical and firefighting equipment, and professional, highly trained staff.

The Best in Police Protection

The Sierra Vista Police Department (SVPD) is the only law enforcement agency in Cochise County accredited by the highly regarded Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). SVPD provides the best in public safety with highly trained professional officers who work hard to keep neighborhoods safe.

Local City Refuse Service

You will not be required to change your trash service as long as you have a current agreement with a private hauler. However, for just about the same price, the City provides the added benefits of free curbside pickup of green yard waste and the collection of bulky items, such as old appliances and furniture, for a small fee.

Better Streets

The City’s annual street maintenance program extends road life and provides good road surfaces for drivers.

Vote in Local Elections

Annexing into the City gives you a voice in local elections on issues that impact your home town.

Get Around Town With Vista Transit

Seniors and residents with limited mobility can enjoy convenient curb-to-curb transit services for local appointments and shopping needs.

Other City Fees and Taxes to Consider

• The City has a 2% utility sales tax and several of the utilities pay a franchise fee. When combined, both fees will not exceed 5%. These fees are put to use in the community to help maintain streets and to support services the City provides.
• A City business license may be required if you own a business and do not yet have a City license. The initial fee is $100 and an annual renewal fee is $50.
• Property owners renting more than two residential units will have a 1% Rental of Real Property tax.
• The City has an annual dog licensing fee of $20 for intact dogs. Spayed and neutered dogs, and those 10 and older, are 45 per dog. Pet owners age 62 and older receive a $2 discount per dog. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required for licensing.

Commonly Asked Questions