Flood Zones: Los Angeles vs Torrance
How do flood zones rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Torrance, CA?
Torrance has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance adopted FEMA flood zone designations from the Flood Insurance Study dated June 18, 1979, with subsequent amendments, codified in TMC Chapter 79 (Flood Hazard Insurance). FIRM and FBFM maps are on file at the Community Development Department. Properties in designated flood zones must carry flood insurance and meet construction standards.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Law | Ordinance 172,081 (Specific Plan) | - |
| Compliance Fee | $273 per check (LAMC 19.07) | - |
| Flood Map | LA Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) | - |
| NFIP | City participates in federal flood insurance | City participates |
| Zone Types | Floodway, floodplain, mud-prone, coastal | - |
| FEMA Study | - | June 18, 1979 (amended) |
| Maps on File | - | Community Dev. Dept. |
| Code | - | TMC Div. 7, Ch. 9 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Torrance FAQ
Is my Torrance property in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps on file at the Community Development Department/Engineering Division at 3031 Torrance Blvd, or use FEMA's online flood map service.
Do I need flood insurance in Torrance?
If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area and you have a federally-backed mortgage, flood insurance is required through the National Flood Insurance Program.
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