FEMA and Flood Preparation

FEMA Flood Map Information Service

The City of Morro Bay is continuing our participation with the Community Rating System (CRS), through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and FEMA. As a benefit for this participation, residents of Morro Bay receive a 15% discount on their flood insurance rates. As a public service, the Public Works Department will continue to provide you with the following information upon request:

  1. Whether a property owner is in or our of the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) as shown on the current Flood Insurance Rate  Map (FIRM) for Morro Bay.
  2. Additional flood insurance data for a site, such as the FIRM Zone, the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) or floodway, if shown on the   FIRM.
  3. We have a handout on the mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement that applies to people who are getting a  federally- backed mortgage or loans for property in the SFHA.
  4. Access to Elevation Certificates that have been processed in Morro Bay if they exist for a certain property.
  5. We have information on flood risk not shown on FIRM.
  6. Information is available if the property is located near a sensitive or wetland area.

If you would like to make an inquiry, please have the address and property's legal description available. We are open from 8am to 5pm, Mondays through Friday, however public counter hours are 8am to noon, Mondays through Thursdays. We can also be reached by telephone at (805)772-6215 or through email at pnewman@morrobayca.gov There is no charge for this service.


Useful links and Documents


Be Storm Ready

A wet winter is predicted and it’s important to prepare now for the possibility of heavy rains and potential flooding. With good preparation and some foresight, it’s possible to reduce the impact of storm runoff on homes and businesses in Morro Bay. Read below for tips on how to be prepared, stay safe, and even acquire flood insurance before the storms hit.

During heavy downpours, it is likely you will see some localized street flooding, which will subside as the water dissipates into the storm drains. If major flooding occurs please call the Public Works Department at (805) 772-6261.


Help Keep Storm Drains Clear

Debris such as leaves and twigs can prevent water from flowing from gutters into storm drains and cause localized flooding. To prevent clogged drains, properly dispose of yard waste in your green waste bin. If you see a clogged storm drain, or blocked gutter and if it is safe, you may attempt to remove the debris with a garden rake. If it appears to be a significant blockage, contact the Public Works Department at 805-772-6261. Please note: Due to the volume of calls, there is limited staff available during a storm event. 


Sand for Sandbags

The City provides sand to our residents to self-fill your sandbags. The sand is located across the street from the Waste Water Treatment Plant at 170 Atascadero Road. There is a blue sign above the sand that states “Sand for sandbags only”. Empty sandbags can be purchased at Miners.


 Creeks

While the City does not own any creek property except for those areas that fall within City parks or in the public right of way such as bridges and roads that cross creeks; if a large tree or debris were to get stuck at a bridge that we maintain then we would remove it, otherwise any other downed trees or vegetation is the responsibility of the property owner. If a property owner wants to remove trees and debris from the portion of the creek that is on their property it is the property owners responsibility to acquire the required permit from California Department of Fish and Wildlife and any other necessary agency.


Guide for Storm Preparation

  • Clean and check for the proper operation of gutters and downspouts and use a downspout extension to direct water away from the house foundation; install gutter guards or screens if necessary.
  • Avoid flood waters - Be cautious. Flood waters rise rapidly, so be prepared to evacuate before flood waters reach your property. If dangerous flooding conditions are imminent, avoid driving a vehicle if possible.
  • Avoid low-lying areas - If outside, look for higher ground. Seek shelter in the highest areas possible. Unstable banks or berms should be avoided.
  • Disable utilities - If your property is in imminent danger of flooding, you may need to shut off your gas and electricity for safety. Visit PG&E online for information about how to do this. If you smell natural gas, see downed power lines, or suspect another power-related emergency situation, call 9-1-1 and then call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area and you are standing on a piece of dry wood while wearing rubber gloves and rubber soled boots or shoes.
  • Prepare an emergency kit for your household - Ensure your household has a safe source of drinking water. In the event of major flooding, you may want to fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case regular supplies are shut off or contaminated. Non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, a manual can opener, and a battery operated radio, first aid kit among other items necessary for up to 72 hours.
  • Acquire flood insurance, and get additional information on what you can do to prepare by visiting  floodsmart.gov