Flood Zones: Green Valley vs Tucson
How do flood zones rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Green Valley and Tucson 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 →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson enforces FEMA floodplain regulations through the Unified Development Code and Pima County Regional Flood Control District. Significant portions of the city lie within FEMA-designated flood zones along the Santa Cruz River, Rillito River, Pantano Wash, and numerous smaller washes. Development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) requires elevation certificates, flood-proofing, and compliance with the city's floodplain management ordinance.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| 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 — CRS community |
| Freeboard Requirement | - | 1 foot above base flood elevation |
| Major Flood Zones | - | Santa Cruz, Rillito, Pantano corridors |
| Substantial Improvement | - | 50% of structure value threshold |
| Permit Authority | - | PDSD and Pima County RFCD |
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.
Tucson FAQ
How do I know if my Tucson property is in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or the Pima County MapGuide interactive map. Many properties near the Santa Cruz River, Rillito River, and Pantano Wash are in Special Flood Hazard Areas requiring flood insurance for federally backed mortgages.
Can I build in a Tucson flood zone?
Yes, but with strict requirements. New construction must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above base flood elevation, obtain a floodplain use permit, and submit an elevation certificate. Fill and grading in floodplains require additional permits.
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