Be Flood Ready

The City of Santa Clara strives to improve flood resiliency in the community through preparedness and mitigation. Materials have been developed to provide residents and business owners with information on local flood risks and preparedness tools. 

Know Your Flood Risk
The City, like other urban areas, faces risks to life and property from many natural and man-made hazards. To check if your property is in Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), you can call the City’s Planning Division, 408-615-2450 or email us at planning@santaclaraca.gov for details specific to your property. You can also view the FEMA Flood Map

Read more about flood risk in the City of Santa Clara. 

Flood Insurance
Basic homeowner’s insurance does not cover losses from flooding. Just a few inches of water from a flood can causes tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Without flood insurance, most residents have to pay out of pocket or take out loans to repair and replace damaged items. With flood insurance, you're able to recover faster and more fully. Learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program and how to reduce your insurance premium.  

Flood Safety Tips
Preparing for a flood is like preparing for an earthquake or other emergencies, but with the advantage of warnings ahead of time. Know what to do before, during & after a flood.

Dumping Creates Flood Hazard 
Some areas in the City are at risk of localized flooding. Learn how you can help minimize the risk of flooding in your area. 

• Report spills, dumping or blockage in storm drains at 408-615-3080 during business hours or 408-615-5640 after hours.
• Report issues in creeks on the Water District’s Watershed Hotline 1-408-630-2378 or at Access Valley Water. 

All new development or substantial improvements within the City's Special Flood Hazard Areas are subject to the Flood Damage Prevention Code  per City’s Municipal Code 15.45.010, and are required to submit Elevation Certificates. Learn more about building in the floodplain.

For complete requirements of constructing in floodplain, please contact City’s Community Development Department.

Flood Warning System
Local Creek Levels (Santa Clara Valley Water District ALERT system)
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

Additional Resources
Santa Clara Valley Water Flood Preparedness Page
National Flood Insurance Program
Homeland Security's Disaster and Emergencies Readiness Page
Excerpt from Inside Santa Clara - Fall 2022

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