Reno, NV Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

The Truckee River runs directly through downtown Reno, and flood risk defines much of the citys land use regulation. Historic floods in 1950, 1955, 1986, 1997, and 2017 caused major damage, particularly to downtown hotels, the convention district, and neighborhoods along Mill Street, East 2nd Street, and Lockwood. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) designate Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) within Reno, primarily along the Truckee River corridor, Steamboat Creek, North Truckee Drain, and Peavine and Whites creeks. New construction in the 100-year floodplain (Zone AE, A, AH) must have the lowest finished floor elevated at least 1 foot above the base flood elevation (BFE).

Reno applies a 1-foot freeboard. Non-residential structures may be floodproofed as an alternative. Substantial improvements (over 50 percent of market value) trigger full floodplain compliance. The Truckee River Flood Project, a multi-decade regional effort including levees, floodwalls, and river channel improvements, aims to reduce 100-year flood risk through downtown. Flood insurance is mandatory for federally-backed mortgages on SFHA properties; Reno participates in the FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) reducing flood insurance rates for residents. gov before buying or building.