Flood Information
FLOODING WITHIN THE CITY OF MILPITAS
Important Information Concerning Flooding Potential in Milpitas
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs):
Certain areas have been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as Special Flood Hazard Areas. Approximately one-quarter of the City is within these flood zones (see flood map in this brochure). SFHAs are areas within the 100-year flood boundary as mapped by FEMA. A “100-year flood” refers to a flood level with a 1 percent or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. There is a 26% chance that a structure located in an SFHA will be inundated by a 100-year flood during the life of a 30-year mortgage. In comparison, the risk of fire is approximately 5% in the same time period. Smaller floods have a greater chance of occurring in any given year and can still create a significant hazard to life and property.
In Milpitas, SFHAs are generally located near the following major creeks: Calera, Penitencia, Berryessa, Los Coches, and Tularcitos. The Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) is responsible for improvements to and maintenance of these major creeks. In 1997, a majority of the area west of I-880 was removed from the SFHA after Coyote Creek improvements were completed.
Local Flood Hazard:
Flooding in our City is caused by:
- A creek overtopping its banks;
- Clogged catch basin or storm drains;
- Poor site drainage; Mud and debris laden flows from the hills above Milpitas.
To find out the flood hazard of your property, or information on flood related questions, call the City Engineering Division at (408) 586-3329.
City Flood Service:
If requested, the City staff will visit a property to review its flood problem and explain ways to stop flooding or prevent flood damage. Flood maps and flood protection references are also available at the Milpitas Library, 160 North Main Street, (408) 262-1171.
For information on selecting a qualified architect, engineer, or contractor, including filing a complaint for unsatisfactory performance, call the City Building Department at (408) 586-3240.
| Engineering Department | Hours: |
| 455 East Calaveras Boulevard | Monday-Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm |
| Main Phone: (408) 586-3300 |