Flood Zones: Los Angeles vs West Covina
How do flood zones rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina 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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in FEMA-designated flood zones. The City lies in the San Gabriel Valley with waterways including the San Gabriel River and its tributaries. LA County Measure W funds stormwater improvements.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Zone Types | Floodway, floodplain, mud-prone, coastal | - |
| NFIP Status | - | Participating community |
| Waterways | - | San Gabriel River + tributaries |
| Measure W Tax | - | $0.025/sq ft impervious |
| Flood Maps | - | msc.fema.gov |
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.
West Covina FAQ
Is West Covina in a flood zone?
Most of the City is outside the 100-year floodplain, but areas near the San Gabriel River and its tributaries (Walnut Creek, San Jose Creek, Big Dalton Wash) may have Zone A or AE designations. Check msc.fema.gov for your property.
What is the Measure W parcel tax?
LA County Measure W (Safe Clean Water Program) charges 2.5 cents per square foot of impermeable area on all parcels within the LA County Flood Control District to fund local water supply and stormwater quality improvements.
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