Santa Rosa updates flood maps and informs public on insurance requirements

The City of Santa Rosa Planning Commission convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding FEMA's flood mapping process, which is crucial for local property owners and community resilience. The meeting focused on the implications of the new flood maps being developed for the Santa Rosa Creek Watershed, particularly areas identified as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).

City officials provided an overview of the flood mapping process, explaining that FEMA has been working on these updates for the past year. The maps indicate areas with a 1% chance of flooding, commonly referred to as the 100-year flood zone. The officials emphasized that while many property owners may see no change in their flood risk status, some could find their properties newly designated within the floodplain, which may require them to obtain flood insurance, especially if they have federally backed loans.

The meeting highlighted the benefits of the updated flood maps, which will assist residents in making informed decisions about property purchases and construction. The city staff noted that these maps are essential for developing strategies to enhance community resilience against flooding, including infrastructure improvements.

FEMA's mapping process consists of multiple phases. The first phase, completed in 2023, involved gathering flood data and local knowledge. The second phase, which is nearing completion, focused on analyzing this data to create preliminary flood maps. City officials expressed concerns about certain properties being inaccurately mapped into the floodplain, particularly on Lakeview Drive, where floodwaters have historically remained within creek banks. FEMA has indicated a willingness to address these concerns by potentially removing the Lakeview Drive property from the SFHA designation.

Looking ahead, the city anticipates the release of preliminary flood maps by the end of June 2025. Following this release, there will be a 90-day public comment and appeal period, during which property owners can contest their flood risk designations. The city plans to conduct outreach efforts, including direct mailings and community meetings, to ensure that residents are informed about the changes and the appeal process.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission's meeting underscored the importance of FEMA's flood mapping updates for Santa Rosa, aiming to enhance public awareness and community preparedness for potential flooding risks. The city remains committed to keeping residents informed and engaged throughout the mapping process.