Flood Zones: Inglewood vs Los Angeles
How do flood zones rules compare between Inglewood, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Inglewood has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Inglewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Parts of Inglewood lie within FEMA-designated flood zones. Properties in these areas may require flood insurance and must comply with floodplain management regulations. New construction in flood zones must meet elevation and design standards.
View full Inglewood rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
The Specific Plan for Management of Flood Hazards (Ordinance 172,081) is the primary regulation governing development in LA flood zones. The Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) designates floodways, floodplains, mud-prone areas, and coastal high-hazard zones. LAMC 19.07 establishes fees for flood hazard compliance checks by the Bureau of Engineering.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Inglewood | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP | Inglewood participates | City participates in federal flood insurance |
| Flood Zones | FEMA Zone A and AE areas exist | - |
| Insurance | Required in Special Flood Hazard Areas | - |
| New Construction | Must meet base flood elevation | - |
| Primary Law | - | Ordinance 172,081 (Specific Plan) |
| Compliance Fee | - | $273 per check (LAMC 19.07) |
| Flood Map | - | LA Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) |
| Zone Types | - | Floodway, floodplain, mud-prone, coastal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Inglewood FAQ
Is my Inglewood property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's flood map service or contact the city's Building Division to determine if your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
Do I need flood insurance in Inglewood?
If your property is in a FEMA-designated flood zone and has a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is required. It's recommended for all properties in flood-prone areas.
Los Angeles FAQ
How do I check if my LA property is in a flood zone?
Check the Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) through the Bureau of Engineering's website or request a flood hazard report. The Bureau charges $273 for a formal compliance check under LAMC 19.07. FEMA flood maps are also available through the NFIP.
Do I need special permits to build in an LA flood zone?
Yes. Development in any designated flood hazard area requires flood clearance from the Bureau of Engineering under Ordinance 172,081. You may need elevation certificates, floodproofing certificates, and compliance with both the city Specific Plan and NFIP requirements.
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