Flood Zones: Castaic vs Downey
How do flood zones rules compare between Castaic, CA and Downey, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Castaic.
Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 11, Chapter 11.60 establishes floodway regulations for unincorporated areas. Development within FEMA flood zones requires compliance with NFIP standards. The County Flood Zone Determination website maps all flood hazard areas.
View full Castaic rules →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Portions of Downey fall within FEMA-designated flood zones, primarily along the Los Angeles River and Rio Hondo channels. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain development standards.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castaic | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Title 11, Ch. 11.60 | - |
| Elevation Req. | 1 ft above BFE | - |
| NFIP Participant | Yes | Yes |
| Flood Lookup | pw.lacounty.gov/floodzone | - |
| Insurance | Required in SFHA | - |
| Flood Areas | - | LA River, Rio Hondo corridors |
| Building Code | - | CA Building Code floodplain provisions |
| Flood Maps | - | FEMA Flood Map Service Center |
| Public Works | - | (562) 904-7110 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castaic FAQ
How do I check if my property is in a flood zone in LA County?
Use the LA County Public Works Flood Zone Determination website at pw.lacounty.gov/floodzone. Enter your address to see FEMA flood zones and county floodway maps.
Do I need flood insurance in unincorporated LA County?
If your property is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (Zone A, AE, etc.), flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages. LA County's CRS participation may provide premium discounts.
Downey FAQ
Is my Downey property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov for your property's flood zone designation. Properties near the LA River or Rio Hondo may be in Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Do I need flood insurance in Downey?
Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas with federally backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance.
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