City Council approves ordinance to end building ban following FEMA approval of new flood zone status
The City Council passed an ordinance tonight that will allow for building to resume in Natomas – commercial development and limited resumption of residential development. The City also today received a copy of a letter from FEMA approving an A99 flood zone designation for the Natomas basin, which effectively ends a seven-year building moratorium. The revised flood map will become effective June 16.
Starting tomorrow, April 1, the City’s Community Development Department at 300 Richards Blvd., will begin accepting applications for building permits. The permits will not be issued until June 16, the date the flood map becomes effective. See details about the building permit application and permitting process.
Also tomorrow, April 1, the City and Councilmembers Jeff Harris and Steve Hansen will host an Open House at Natomas High School from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. City staff and a FEMA insurance specialist will answer community questions about:
- Levee improvements
- Construction resuming
- Flood protection
- Planning applications
- Flood insurance
- Building permits
Even with the revised flood status becoming effective, property owners in the Natomas Basin who have a federally-backed mortgage will still need flood insurance until Natomas levees are certified for 100-year protection. Levee improvements will take several years to complete.
However, the A99 status will allow property owners located within the Natomas basin to continue to receive their “Properties Newly Mapped” discount for their flood insurance.
For information about the National Flood Insurance Program or to locate an insurance agent, property owners can visit FloodSmart or call 1-888-379-9531.
Planning and Building Information
Email: Community Development at natomasCDD@cityofsacramento.org or call 311.