Flood Zones: Redwood City vs San Mateo
How do flood zones rules compare between Redwood City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
Redwood City and San Mateo have similar restriction levels.
Redwood City, CA
San Mateo County
Parts of Redwood City near the Bay and Redwood Creek are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation to Base Flood Elevation plus freeboard. Flood insurance required for federally-backed loans.
View full Redwood City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Parts of San Mateo near the Bay shoreline and creek corridors (Coyote Creek, San Mateo Creek) are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation and a floodplain development permit.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP Participant | Yes | Yes |
| Risk Areas | Bay shoreline, Redwood Creek lowlands | Bay shoreline, Coyote Creek, San Mateo Creek corridors |
| Flood Permit | Required for construction in SFHA | Required for construction in SFHA |
| Check Map | msc.fema.gov | msc.fema.gov |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Redwood City?
Parts of Redwood City near the Bay and Redwood Creek are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation to Base Flood Elevation plus freeboard. Flood insurance required for federally-backed loans.
Do I need flood insurance in Redwood City?
NFIP Participant: Yes. Risk Areas: Bay shoreline, Redwood Creek lowlands. Flood Permit: Required for construction in SFHA. Check Map: msc.fema.gov.
San Mateo FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in San Mateo?
Parts of San Mateo near the Bay shoreline and creek corridors (Coyote Creek, San Mateo Creek) are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation and a floodplain development permit.
Do I need flood insurance in San Mateo?
NFIP Participant: Yes. Risk Areas: Bay shoreline, Coyote Creek, San Mateo Creek corridors. Flood Permit: Required for construction in SFHA. Check Map: msc.fema.gov.
Compare other topics
See how Redwood City and San Mateo compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool