What is the meaning of special assessment?

special assessment is a tax or levy customarily imposed against only those specific parcels of realty that will benefit from a proposed public improvement, as opposed to a general tax on the entire community. Because the proposed improvement will enhance the value of the affected homes, only those affected owners must pay this special lien. Common examples of special assessments are water, sidewalk and sewer assessments, or other special improvements such as parks and recreational facilities.