Flood Zones: Mesa vs Phoenix
How do flood zones rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Mesa and Phoenix have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa regulates development in flood-prone areas under Mesa City Code Title 9, Chapter 4 (Floodplain Regulations). The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and enforces FEMA flood zone designations along the Salt River, Indian Bend Wash, and other drainage corridors. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) requires a floodplain use permit and must meet elevation and floodproofing requirements.
View full Mesa rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) under City Code Chapter 32B (Floodplain Management Ordinance). The FH Zoning District (Section 657) imposes additional restrictions. The base flood is defined as the 1% annual chance (100-year) flood.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Mesa City Code Title 9, Chapter 4 | - |
| NFIP Participation | Active participant | - |
| Major Flood Areas | Salt River, Indian Bend Wash | - |
| Permit Required | Floodplain use permit for SFHA construction | - |
| Base Flood Elevation | Structures must be elevated 1 ft above BFE | - |
| Code Chapter | - | Phoenix City Code Chapter 32B |
| Zoning District | - | Section 657 — FH District |
| NFIP | - | Participating community with CRS rating |
| Base Flood | - | 1% annual chance (100-year) flood |
| Floodplain Office | - | 200 W. Washington St, City Hall |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
How do I know if my property is in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or contact Mesa's Development Services. Properties along the Salt River, Indian Bend Wash, and major drainage corridors are most likely to be in Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zone A or AE).
Can I build in a Mesa flood zone?
Yes, but you need a floodplain use permit and must meet strict requirements. Residential structures must be elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation. Substantial improvements to existing structures in the floodplain must also comply.
Phoenix FAQ
How do I find out if my property is in a flood zone?
Contact the Phoenix Floodplain Management office at City Hall (200 W. Washington St) or check FEMA flood maps. The city participates in NFIP's Community Rating System, which may provide flood insurance discounts.
What restrictions apply in flood zones?
Development in SFHAs must meet Chapter 32B requirements, including elevation requirements, flood-resistant construction, and restrictions on fill and grading. The FH District (Zoning Section 657) further restricts development near watercourses.
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