Flood Zones: Downey vs Long Beach
How do flood zones rules compare between Downey, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Downey and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
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 →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach participates in NFIP. FEMA flood maps govern SFHAs. Structures in flood zones require elevation certificates for major work. Substantial improvement rule (50%) applies.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP Participant | Yes | - |
| 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 | - |
| NFIP | - | Long Beach participates |
| Elevation Certificate | - | Required for new or substantially improved structures in SFHA |
| 50% Rule | - | Substantial improvement triggers full compliance |
| Flood Insurance | - | Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHA |
| Contact | - | (562) 570-6784 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Long Beach FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Long Beach?
Long Beach participates in NFIP. FEMA flood maps govern SFHAs. Structures in flood zones require elevation certificates for major work. Substantial improvement rule (50%) applies.
Do I need flood insurance in Long Beach?
NFIP: Long Beach participates. Elevation Certificate: Required for new or substantially improved structures in SFHA. 50% Rule: Substantial improvement triggers full compliance. Flood Insurance: Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHA.
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