Chico, CA Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Freeboard required
- 1 foot above base flood elevation
- AO zones
- 2 ft above grade, or depth-number rule
- Certification required
- Licensed architect, surveyor, or engineer
- Violation classification
- Infraction (§ 16R.37.025)
Summary
Chico requires new and substantially improved buildings in special flood hazard areas to elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above the base flood elevation, with stricter rules in AO zones.
A. Residential construction, new or substantial improvement, shall have the lowest floor, including basement: ... 2. Within a zone designated as A on the approved floodplain maps on file in the office of the building division, elevated to at least one foot above the base flood elevation, as determined by the building official. 3. In all other zones, elevated to at least one foot above the base flood elevation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Under Chico Municipal Code Chapter 16R.37 (Floodplain Standards), residential construction that is new or a substantial improvement must have its lowest floor, including any basement, elevated to at least one foot above the base flood elevation in Zone A and in all other special flood hazard zones; AO zones use a depth-number-based standard instead. A licensed architect, land surveyor, or civil engineer must certify the finished elevation, and the building official verifies it before the structure is approved.
Violations & Fines
Building or grading without complying with Chapter 16R.37's elevation standards is an infraction under § 16R.37.025, and the city can take further lawful action to prevent or remedy the violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high above the base flood elevation must a new home be built in Chico?
Who verifies the elevation was built correctly?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California environmental rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.