Revised Todd Creek flood appraisal and insurance study moves forward

Sonoma County has submitted a final application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to revise the flood insurance study and floodplain maps for the Todd Creek watershed, which is near the Highway 101 corridor between Santa Rosa and Rohnert Park.

The revised study is the result of several years of technical analysis by the County and engineering consultants to improve the accuracy and reliability of FEMA’s flood mapping, demonstrating the County’s commitment to shifting leadership and decision-making to the local level, setting it apart from past efforts.

“This revised study demonstrates the need for the County to take a local approach,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “By taking this step, we’re ensuring FEMA’s flood maps are accurate and are reducing unnecessary burdens for families and property owners in the Todd Creek watershed.”

FEMA is now conducting its final review of the County’s request, known as a Letter of Map Revision, which proposes updates to the floodplain and floodway designations across nearly 1,000 parcels in the Todd Creek watershed. The review process includes a 90-day public comment period, which is expected to begin this summer.

To support transparency and public access, Permit Sonoma has launched an interactive map that allows property owners to explore the proposed changes and compare them with existing FEMA designations. Approximately 291 parcels are proposed to change in flood status, including more than 160 parcels where the floodplain designation would be removed.

Affected property owners were notified by mail in June 2025. Permit Sonoma encourages all interested residents to visit the Todd Creek Flood Insurance Study webpage to review the County’s findings and learn more about how to submit comments during the FEMA review period.

An informational public workshop will be held approximately one month after the 90-day comment period begins. To receive updates and notifications about this study, please sign up to receive the project newsletter or email staff at: ToddCreekLOMR@sonoma-county.org.

For additional information, including floodplain regulations and interactive tools, visit: https://permitsonoma.org/toddcreekstudy

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Media Contact:
Genevieve Bertone
Permit Sonoma, Outreach Manager
Genevieve.Bertone@sonoma-county.org
(707) 565- 1231