Flood Zones: Burbank vs Los Angeles
How do flood zones rules compare between Burbank, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Burbank has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Portions of Burbank near the Los Angeles River and Tujunga Wash are in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. Properties in Zone A or AE may require flood insurance and elevated construction. Contact Public Works at (818) 238-3915 or check FEMA maps at msc.fema.gov.
View full Burbank rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
The Specific Plan for Management of Flood Hazards (Ordinance 172,081) is the primary regulation governing development in LA flood zones. The Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) designates floodways, floodplains, mud-prone areas, and coastal high-hazard zones. LAMC 19.07 establishes fees for flood hazard compliance checks by the Bureau of Engineering.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Flood Areas | Near LA River and Tujunga Wash | - |
| FEMA Maps | msc.fema.gov | - |
| SFHA Requirement | Flood insurance may be required | - |
| Contact | Public Works (818) 238-3915 | - |
| Primary Law | - | Ordinance 172,081 (Specific Plan) |
| Compliance Fee | - | $273 per check (LAMC 19.07) |
| Flood Map | - | LA Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) |
| NFIP | - | City participates in federal flood insurance |
| Zone Types | - | Floodway, floodplain, mud-prone, coastal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Burbank?
Portions of Burbank near the Los Angeles River and Tujunga Wash are in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. Properties in Zone A or AE may require flood insurance and elevated construction. Contact Public Works at (818) 238-3915 or check FEMA maps at msc.fema.gov.
Do I need flood insurance in Burbank?
Flood Areas: Near LA River and Tujunga Wash. FEMA Maps: msc.fema.gov. SFHA Requirement: Flood insurance may be required. Contact: Public Works (818) 238-3915.
Los Angeles FAQ
How do I check if my LA property is in a flood zone?
Check the Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) through the Bureau of Engineering's website or request a flood hazard report. The Bureau charges $273 for a formal compliance check under LAMC 19.07. FEMA flood maps are also available through the NFIP.
Do I need special permits to build in an LA flood zone?
Yes. Development in any designated flood hazard area requires flood clearance from the Bureau of Engineering under Ordinance 172,081. You may need elevation certificates, floodproofing certificates, and compliance with both the city Specific Plan and NFIP requirements.
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