Flood Zones: Green Valley vs Oro Valley
How do flood zones rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Green Valley and Oro Valley have similar restriction levels.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County Regional Flood Control District administers the Floodplain Management Ordinance (Title 16, Ordinance 2010-FC5). The District maps both FEMA FIRMs and local Special Study Floodplains covering more than half of known county flood hazards. FEMA updated Pima County flood maps January 2026 (appeal through April 29, 2026). Building in/near washes requires flood control approval.
View full Green Valley rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Oro Valley participates in the NFIP and enforces floodplain rules exceeding FEMA minimums. Development along Canada del Oro Wash requires floodplain use permits and 1-foot freeboard.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance | Title 16 (Ord. 2010-FC5) | - |
| Flood District | Pima County RFCD: 520-724-4600 | - |
| FEMA Maps | Updated Jan 2026; appeal by Apr 29 2026 | - |
| Special Studies | District maps fill FEMA gaps | - |
| Permit Trigger | 100+ cfs peak discharge floodplain | - |
| Primary Hazard | Desert wash/arroyo flash flooding | - |
| NFIP Participant | - | Yes |
| Freeboard Requirement | - | 1 foot above BFE |
| Primary Floodplain | - | Canada del Oro Wash |
| Permit Required | - | Floodplain Use Permit |
| Erosion Hazard Setback | - | Required from wash banks |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Pima County?
Pima County Regional Flood Control District administers the Floodplain Management Ordinance (Title 16, Ordinance 2010-FC5). The District maps both FEMA FIRMs and local Special Study Floodplains covering more than half of known county flood hazards. FEMA updated Pima County flood maps January...
Do I need flood insurance in Pima County?
Ordinance: Title 16 (Ord. 2010-FC5). Flood District: Pima County RFCD: 520-724-4600. FEMA Maps: Updated Jan 2026; appeal by Apr 29 2026. Special Studies: District maps fill FEMA gaps.
Oro Valley FAQ
Is my Oro Valley property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA Flood Map Service Center or contact Oro Valley Development Services. Canada del Oro Wash and its tributaries create SFHA zones through much of the Town. Pima County Regional Flood Control District also maintains mapping.
How high must I build above the flood level?
Oro Valley requires the lowest floor be elevated at least one foot above base flood elevation, which is stricter than the FEMA minimum. An elevation certificate is required before occupancy.
Can I build a wall along a wash on my property?
Bank protection and retaining walls in the floodplain require a Floodplain Use Permit and engineering review. Erosion hazard setback calculations may also apply.
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