Flood Zones: Anaheim vs Santa Ana
How do flood zones rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Anaheim and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain development regulations for properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. The city's floodplain management ordinance requires structures in flood zones to be elevated above base flood elevation. The Santa Ana River corridor and Santiago Creek present the primary flood risks within city limits.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Codes | AMC 17.28 / 18.28 | - |
| Flood Source | Santa Ana River | - |
| Insurance | Required in SFHA | - |
| FEMA Maps | FIRM available online | Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) |
| NFIP Participant | - | Yes — National Flood Insurance Program |
| Primary Flood Sources | - | Santa Ana River and Santiago Creek |
| Elevation Required | - | Above Base Flood Elevation in SFHA |
| Permit Required | - | Floodplain development permit for SFHA work |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
How do I find out if my Santa Ana property is in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or contact the city's Public Works department. The Santa Ana River corridor and Santiago Creek areas are the primary flood risk zones.
What building requirements apply in Santa Ana flood zones?
Structures in Special Flood Hazard Areas must be elevated above Base Flood Elevation and comply with the city's floodplain management ordinance. A floodplain development permit is required.
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