Richmond, CA Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

Richmond has extensive FEMA-mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), particularly along the San Francisco Bay shoreline, Marina Bay, Point Richmond, the Richmond Inner Harbor, the Santa Fe Channel, and portions of the North Richmond watershed. FEMA Zone AE (1% annual chance flood, with Base Flood Elevations established) dominates the bayfront, while Zone VE (coastal with wave action) applies to exposed waterfront areas. Zone X-shaded indicates moderate risk (0.2% annual chance). The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 15.10 implements floodplain management standards meeting or exceeding NFIP minimums. New construction and substantial improvements (50% or more of market value) in SFHAs must be elevated at least 1 foot above the Base Flood Elevation (freeboard), use flood-resistant materials below the BFE, and include flood vents on enclosed areas. Elevation certificates are required before and after construction. Federally-backed mortgages in SFHAs require flood insurance. Richmond is actively planning for sea-level rise given its extensive low-lying shoreline and is part of Bay Area resilience planning efforts. LOMAs and LOMRs can be pursued for properties mis-mapped.