Flood Zones: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do flood zones rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
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 →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Parts of South San Francisco near the Bay shoreline and low-lying industrial areas are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation and a floodplain development permit. Sea level rise is a key risk.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP Participant | Yes | Yes |
| Risk Areas | Bay shoreline, Coyote Creek, San Mateo Creek corridors | Bay shoreline, industrial/biotech corridor lowlands |
| 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.
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.
South San Francisco FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in South San Francisco?
Parts of South San Francisco near the Bay shoreline and low-lying industrial areas are in FEMA flood zones. New construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation and a floodplain development permit. Sea level rise is a key risk.
Do I need flood insurance in South San Francisco?
NFIP Participant: Yes. Risk Areas: Bay shoreline, industrial/biotech corridor lowlands. Flood Permit: Required for construction in SFHA. Check Map: msc.fema.gov.
Compare other topics
See how San Mateo and South San Francisco 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