Flood Zones: Santa Clarita vs West Covina
How do flood zones rules compare between Santa Clarita, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina has fewer restrictions than Santa Clarita.
Santa Clarita, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Clarita has significant FEMA-mapped flood zones, particularly along the Santa Clara River and its tributaries. Development in flood hazard areas is heavily restricted under SCMC Title 15. Buildings, fences, and fill are prohibited in flood zones except as specifically authorized.
View full Santa Clarita 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 | Santa Clarita | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | SCMC Title 15 | - |
| Flood Areas | Santa Clara River and tributaries | - |
| NFIP | Participating community | - |
| Restrictions | Buildings, fences, fill all restricted | - |
| ADUs | Must comply with flood zone rules | - |
| 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.
Santa Clarita FAQ
Is my Santa Clarita property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or contact Santa Clarita's planning department. Properties near the Santa Clara River and tributary washes are most likely in flood hazard areas.
Can I build a fence in a Santa Clarita flood zone?
Fences in flood hazard areas require permits and must comply with SCMC Title 15 floodplain regulations. Standard fence permit exemptions do not apply in flood zones.
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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