Flood Zones: Carmichael vs Citrus Heights
How do flood zones rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Citrus Heights, CA?
Carmichael and Citrus Heights have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Large portions of Sacramento County lie within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas including Natomas, the Pocket, Delta communities, and areas along the American and Sacramento Rivers. SAFCA manages regional levee improvements. CA SB 5 requires 200-year flood protection for urban development in Central Valley. County Code Chapter 27.10 is the Floodplain Management Ordinance.
View full Carmichael rules →Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
Portions of Citrus Heights lie within FEMA flood zones along Arcade Creek, Cripple Creek, and their tributaries. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zone AE, A) requires elevation certificates and floodplain development permits. The Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency and Arcade Creek drainage district oversee regional flood management.
View full Citrus Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Citrus Heights |
|---|---|---|
| SFHAs | Natomas, Pocket, Delta, riverfront | - |
| Code | Chapter 27.10 | - |
| Freeboard | BFE + 1 ft | 1 ft above BFE required |
| State Law | SB 5 200-year standard | - |
| Agency | SAFCA regional levees | - |
| Main Corridors | - | Arcade Creek, Cripple Creek |
| Zones | - | AE and A (SFHA) |
| Permit | - | Floodplain Development Permit |
| Regional | - | SAFCA / Sac County |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Is my home in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center by address or the Sacramento County Floodplain Management viewer. Much of Natomas, the Pocket, and Delta areas are in Zone AE.
Do I need flood insurance?
If you have a federally-backed mortgage and your home is in an SFHA, flood insurance is federally required. Even outside SFHAs, flood insurance is often recommended given regional risk.
Citrus Heights FAQ
How do I know if my property is in a flood zone?
Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov or contact Citrus Heights Building & Safety with your parcel address.
Is flood insurance required?
Yes, for properties in Zone AE or A with federally-backed mortgages. Voluntary coverage is available and recommended elsewhere near Arcade Creek.
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