Flood Zones: Albuquerque vs Tijeras
How do flood zones rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Tijeras, NM?
Tijeras has fewer restrictions than Albuquerque.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Albuquerque regulates development in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas under Article 5 of Chapter 14 (§14-5-1 through §14-5-4) of the city code. The Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority (AMAFCA) coordinates regional flood management across the metro area's extensive arroyo system. Major flood risks come from the Rio Grande, North Diversion Channel, and numerous arroyos including the Bear, Hahn, Tijeras, and Embudo.
View full Albuquerque rules →Tijeras, NM
Bernalillo County
Tijeras is located in the Tijeras Canyon at the base of the Sandia Mountains with potential flash flood risk from arroyos. FEMA flood zone maps apply. Bernalillo County Public Works manages flood zone information. Development in flood-prone areas requires compliance with FEMA floodplain regulations.
View full Tijeras rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Tijeras |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Chapter 14, Article 5 (§14-5-1 to §14-5-4) | - |
| Flood Authority | AMAFCA | - |
| Primary Hazard | Monsoon flash flooding via arroyos | - |
| NFIP Participant | Yes | - |
| Elevation Required | At or above Base Flood Elevation | - |
| Geography | - | Tijeras Canyon — arroyo flash flood risk |
| FEMA Maps | - | Flood zone maps apply |
| Floodplain Admin | - | Bernalillo County Public Works |
| Development | - | Floodplain compliance required |
| NFIP | - | Flood insurance available |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
What are the main flood risks in Albuquerque?
The biggest risks come from flash flooding through the arroyo system during the summer monsoon season. The Rio Grande, North Diversion Channel, and numerous arroyos including Bear, Hahn, and Tijeras pose flood hazards.
Do I need a permit to build in a flood zone?
Yes. All construction in FEMA-designated 100-year floodplains requires a Floodplain Development Permit. Residential buildings must be elevated to at least the Base Flood Elevation.
Tijeras FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Tijeras?
Tijeras is located in the Tijeras Canyon at the base of the Sandia Mountains with potential flash flood risk from arroyos. FEMA flood zone maps apply. Bernalillo County Public Works manages flood zone information. Development in flood-prone areas requires compliance with FEMA floodplain regulations.
Do I need flood insurance in Tijeras?
Geography: Tijeras Canyon — arroyo flash flood risk. FEMA Maps: Flood zone maps apply. Floodplain Admin: Bernalillo County Public Works. Development: Floodplain compliance required.
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