Questions asked by District Neighbors provides information on fire management, land purchases, management of invasives, assistance with local services, constituent representation and communication.

Q. What is a special district?

A. The controller of the State of California defines a special district as a "legally constituted governmental entity, which is neither a city nor county, established for the purpose of carrying on specific activities within...defined boundaries."

Special districts have many of the same powers as other units of local government, but are often defined by their functional characteristics. We've all heard of sewer districts, fire protection districts, and school districts. An open space district is a lesser-known, but fairly common type of district that acquires and preserves open space lands; protects and restores the natural environment; and provides opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment.

Special District Definition Source: Self Government by District, Robert B. Hawkins, Jr.

Q. How is the Open Space District different from our County Parks and Recreation Departments?

A. The District is an independent special district with a single purpose: preserving regional open space lands in a natural condition. Facilities are typically limited to trails and parking areas in order to enhance public access and enjoyment of these natural areas.

The County Board of Supervisors governs county parks systems, which typically manage regional parks to provide a broad spectrum of recreational opportunities, as well as specialized facilities such as golf courses, marinas, group picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Q. What are the preserve hours?

A. District preserves are open every day for your enjoyment from sunrise to one half-hour after sunset.

Q. Are the trails open even when it rains?

A. Some District trails are closed seasonally or during and immediately following periods of bad weather to provide for safe use and to protect preserve resources. Trail closures are listed on the web site and updated frequently. Each trail closure is clearly signed at the preserve.

Q. Does the District permit or allow horseback riding?

A. Certain trails on 21 different District preserves are open to equestrian use. Many of the District's preserves have dedicated equestrian parking areas. Several equestrian trails are closed during the winter season. Please check for seasonal trail closures before visiting a preserve. See Ideas for Equestrians for more information.

Q. Can I camp on District Land?

A. Camping is permitted at the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve's Black Mountain Camp by permit only.

Q. How can I volunteer to help maintain the trails or otherwise get involved in District work?

A. There are many opportunities each month for individuals or groups to participate in a wide variety of projects. No previous experience is required, and the projects range from native plant seed collection to trail maintenance. To find out more, please see the volunteer section of this website, send an email to volunteer@openspace.org or call (650) 691-1200.