Flood Damage Prevention
The following is provided to assist the City of Salinas community, participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as of 1981, in understanding local floodplain management regulations and developing in local Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA).
The City’s flood insurance study (FIS) and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are on file at the Salinas Permit Center, 65 West Alisal Street, with the Engineering Permit Services Section. Copies of the City’s FIS and FIRMs are also available at the Salinas Public Libraries.
Find more information in the documents and links below.
2009 Summary Of Map Actions Somas
FEMA Flood Fact Sheet For Kids
Flood Insurance
Flood damage is not covered by homeowner insurance policies. For this reason, the City of Salinas participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which provides flood insurance options for all structures, whether or not they are located in the floodplain. This insurance can be purchased from participating insurance agencies. The insurance agent may ask for an elevation certificate to begin coverage. This document identifies the building's risk by comparing the building's elevation to the flood height level in that area.
There is a 30-day waiting period by the NFIP before coverage takes effect. Therefore, plan ahead and purchase insurance before the rainy season.
Flood Insurance Requirements
Under federal law, homes or businesses located in the high-risk flood area that receive federal disaster assistance and/or have government-backed mortgages are required to purchase and maintain flood insurance. Per this requirement, the minimum flood insurance coverage must be equal to the amount of the loan, the maximum amount available under the NFIP based on structure type (currently $250,000 for residential property structures), or the insurable value of the property.
Structures located in moderate-to low- risk areas are not required by federal law to obtain flood insurance, but can still be required by the lender. It is the lender's responsibility to review the Flood Insurance Rate Map to determine if the structure is located within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). The lender will notify you if your structure has been added to the SFHA to update your flood insurance coverage.
Flood Insurance Rates and Coverage
Various factors are used to calculate flood insurance rates, including flood hazard location, elevation, and building age. These factors can cause a drastic variety between rates, so it is best to contact a licensed participating insurance agent to help you determine the premium for your specific property.
Through the NFIP there are two types of coverage: building and contents. Building coverage includes the building, foundation, electrical and plumbing system, and other items permanently attached to the structure, typically excluding basements. Contents coverage may be purchased separately to insure other contents of the insured building. A complete list of what is covered by these two types of coverage and more information about flood insurance can be found in the NFIP's Summary of Coverage Brochure.
Additionally, if your building is located in the floodplain area there are ways to reduce your flood insurance premium. The NFIP "How Can I Pay Less?" website notes common flood mitigation options property owners can consider to help reduce their coverage cost.
Community Rating System
The City of Salinas participates in the NFIP Community Rating System (CRS). This voluntary incentive program recognizes the community's effort to reduce flood risk, and promote the awareness of flood insurance by awarding a NFIP policy premium discount for developing these extra measures, beyond the minimum floodplain management requirements.
The U.S Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergancy Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the City of Salinas a class seven (7) rating since 2014. This allows Salinas residents to qualify for a 15 percent discount on flood insurance premiums when located in the SFHA and a five percent discount outside the SFHA. Participation in the CRS program demonstrates the City's effort to help reduce property damage and save lives in the event of a flood.
City Flood Maps (April 2, 2009)
Official Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for the City of Salinas have been attached below for your convenience.
A listing of historic Letter of Map Changes (LOMCs) not included in the 2009 FIRMs can be found in the 2009 Summary of Map Actions (SOMAs) above.
Flood Insurance Study (June 21, 2017)
The Flood Insurance Study (FIS) contains detailed flood elevation data in profiles and data tables.
Flood Insurance Study (April 2, 2009)
The Flood Insurance Study (FIS) contains detailed flood elevation data in profiles and data tables.
Historic FIRMs, Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps and FIS
The City of Salinas maintains historic flood maps from 1981 on file. These files are attached and can be viewed in person at the Permit Center. A flood map for Panel 060202 0004 was not published by FEMA as it contains no floodway was delineated within it's boundaries.
Historic Unrecorded Maps
FEMA Flood Protection Publications
The following is a listing of publications provided by FEMA to assist in your development and reduce possible flood damage to your structure.
- Answers To Questions About The National Flood Insurance Program - FEMA F084 (2011)
- Above The Flood-Elevating Your Floodprone House - FEMA347
- Elevated Residential Structures - FEMA54
- Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage - FEMA P-348 508 0
- Protecting Floodplain Resources - FEMA268
- Protecting Manufactured Homes From Floods And Other Hazard - FEMA P85 0
- Reducing Damage From Localized Flooding - FEMA511
Flood Damage Prevention News
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Preparedness Information for Insurance
National Preparedness Month has come to an end. As a final community outreach, we have provided a link below that will direct you to the FEMA Flood Insurance page. This link is helpful to be prepared and covered for an emergency. Please keep in mind that there is a 30 day waiting period for insurance coverage. #BeReady
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Preparedness Information for People with Disabilities
Image courtesy of Ready.Ohio.gov
It is the fourth week of National Preparedness Month. In our effort to continue to engage the community, this week's brochure, created by FEMA, is to help people with disabilities prepare for possible disasters.
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Preparedness Information for Seniors
Image courtesy of Direct Energy blog
It is the third week of National Preparedness Month. For this week's community engagement, the brochure, created by FEMA, is catered to seniors and provides helpful tips on how they can prepare for an emergency.
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