FEMA flood zone rules in Scottsdale, AZ — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Scottsdale regulates floodplain development under Revised Code Chapter 37 (Stormwater and Floodplain Management) and participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA-designated flood zones along desert washes and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt require special building standards and flood insurance.
Scottsdale Revised Code Chapter 37 establishes stormwater and floodplain management regulations. The city participates in NFIP, requiring flood insurance for properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas (100-year floodplain). The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, a major flood control feature running through central Scottsdale, was constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers and manages significant flood flows. Desert washes throughout the city create flash flood hazards; the 100-year floodplain of watercourses in ESLO areas with 50+ CFS peak discharge must be dedicated to the city by drainage easement and maintained in a natural state. No habitable structures are permitted within the regulatory floodway. Buildings in the 100-year floodplain must be elevated above the base flood elevation (BFE). Flood Control District of Maricopa County (FCDMC) manages regional flood infrastructure.
Building in the floodway without authorization is prohibited. Violations of floodplain regulations may result in denial of flood insurance, stop-work orders, fines, and required remediation.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle flood zones.
See how Scottsdale's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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