What to do
1. Check the property’s zone in the Property Information Map
Search for the address. Select the “Environmental Information” tab.
Scroll down to “Flooding: FEMA FIRM Flood Hazards (Coastal).”
Check if the property is considered to be in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
Ignore the “Flooding: 100-Year Storm Flood Risk Zone (Stormwater)” section. The ordinance does not apply to properties located only in the stormwater flood risk zone.
2. Hire a licensed design professional to fill out the Flood Hazard Zone Protection Checklist
An engineer or architect licensed in California must complete and stamp the checklist.
The checklist is on page 5, attachment A of Information Sheet G-28.
3. Submit the checklist and other documents when you apply for a building permit
Attach the following:
- Completed, signed, and stamped Flood Hazard Zone Protection Checklist
- Plans showing the zone of the property, consulting the Property Information Map.
After plan review
Construction requirements for a floodplain
Specific requirements depend on the flood zone and the type of development. Basic standards include:
- Being reasonably safe from flood damage (being elevated about the height of floodwaters or flood-proofing)
- Not causing physical damage to any other property during flooding (such as increased flood heights, diversion of flood waters, floating materials, or pollution)
See details in the following official codes:
- California Building Code Section 1612
- ASCE 24-14
- SFDBI Information Sheet G-28
Other documents needed later
You need the following documents before we grant a Certificate of Final Completion and Occupancy:
- FEMA Elevation Certificate
- For projects utilizing Dry Flood-proofing: FEMA Flood-proofing Certificate
For full details, refer to Information Sheet G-28.
Last updated December 7, 2022