Selma, CA Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

The City of Selma participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which requires adoption and enforcement of floodplain management regulations for development within Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) as shown on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Areas along waterways in and around Selma may be designated as Zone A (approximate flood hazard) or Zone AE (detailed flood study with base flood elevations). New construction and substantial improvements in SFHAs must meet specific standards. The lowest floor of residential structures must be elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). Non-residential structures may be elevated or floodproofed to the same level. Substantial improvement is defined as any repair, reconstruction, or improvement where the cost equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the improvement. Manufactured homes in flood zones must be elevated and anchored on a permanent foundation. Enclosed areas below the BFE must have openings to allow equalization of hydrostatic flood pressures. Fill material used to elevate structures must be compacted and properly drained. All development in SFHAs requires a floodplain development permit from the City. An elevation certificate prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer is required to document compliance. The Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District manages regional flood infrastructure including retention basins, levees, and drainage channels that provide flood protection for the Selma area. Property owners can check their flood zone status using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.