Flood Zones: Marana vs Oro Valley
How do flood zones rules compare between Marana, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Marana and Oro Valley have similar restriction levels.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana LDC §17-15-10 governs flood hazard reduction. Pima County Regional Flood Control District and FEMA FIRMs apply. FEMA updated Pima County flood maps January 2026 (appeal through April 29, 2026). Santa Cruz River and Tortolita fan washes create significant local flood risk.
View full Marana 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 | Marana | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Marana LDC §17-15-10 | - |
| FEMA Maps | Updated Jan 2026; appeal by Apr 29 2026 | - |
| Flood District | Pima County RFCD: 520-724-4600 | - |
| Local Hazards | Santa Cruz River, Tortolita fan washes | - |
| Mfr. Homes | Floodplain Use Permit after 180 days | - |
| 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.
Marana FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Marana?
Marana LDC §17-15-10 governs flood hazard reduction. Pima County Regional Flood Control District and FEMA FIRMs apply. FEMA updated Pima County flood maps January 2026 (appeal through April 29, 2026). Santa Cruz River and Tortolita fan washes create significant local flood risk.
Do I need flood insurance in Marana?
Code Section: Marana LDC §17-15-10. FEMA Maps: Updated Jan 2026; appeal by Apr 29 2026. Flood District: Pima County RFCD: 520-724-4600. Local Hazards: Santa Cruz River, Tortolita fan washes.
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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