FEMA flood zone rules in San Diego County, CA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
San Diego County regulates development in flood zones through the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas must comply with floodplain management requirements including elevation, flood-proofing, and restricted uses.
The County's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance restricts development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) as identified on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps. The ordinance prohibits uses dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion hazards. New residential construction must have the lowest floor elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). Non-residential structures may be flood-proofed as an alternative. Substantial improvements (exceeding 50% of market value) trigger full compliance. Fill in floodplains is regulated to prevent damaging increases in flood heights. The County Department of Public Works Flood Control Section administers the program. FEMA flood insurance is required for properties in SFHAs with federally-backed mortgages.
Building in flood zones without compliance may result in permit denial, required demolition, and inability to obtain flood insurance. Violations affect the entire community's flood insurance program standing.
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See how San Diego County's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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