Flood Zones: Anaheim vs Huntington Beach
How do flood zones rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Anaheim and Huntington Beach have similar restriction levels.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim regulates development in flood zones under AMC 17.28 (Flood Hazard Reduction) and AMC 18.28 (Floodplain Overlay Zone). The Santa Ana River and its tributaries create FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas throughout the city.
View full Anaheim rules →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach participates in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program and regulates development in flood zones. The coastal city faces flood risk from storm surge, tsunamis, and river flooding.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Codes | AMC 17.28 / 18.28 | - |
| Flood Source | Santa Ana River | - |
| Insurance | Required in SFHA | - |
| FEMA Maps | FIRM available online | - |
| NFIP | - | Huntington Beach participates |
| Flood Sources | - | Ocean surge, Santa Ana River, tsunami |
| Elevation | - | Lowest floor at or above BFE |
| Sea Level Rise | - | Addressed in Coastal Element |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Is my Anaheim property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or contact the Planning Department at 714-765-5139. The Santa Ana River creates significant flood hazard areas.
Do I need flood insurance in Anaheim?
If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area and has a federally insured mortgage, yes. Standard homeowner policies do not cover floods.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Huntington Beach?
Check FEMA flood maps or contact the city's Planning Department. Huntington Beach has coastal flood, river flood, and tsunami zones. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas need flood insurance.
Does Huntington Beach plan for sea level rise?
Yes. The city's Coastal Element addresses sea-level rise planning, which may affect future flood zone designations and building requirements.
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