Community Rating System (CRS) Flood Information Page
FLOOD PLAIN INFORMATION: Despite our location on the high desert a large percentage of the Town is located within the flood plain of Sonoita Creek. If you are considering buying a property within the Town be sure and check with the town office to verify the flood plain status of the property and be aware of the possible need for flood insurance.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) was implemented in 1990 as a voluntary program for recognizing and encouraging community floodplain management activities exceeding the minimum NFIP standards.
CRS floodplain management activities provide enhanced public safety, reduced damage to property and public infrastructure, and avoidance of economic disruption and loss.
Under the CRS, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reward community actions that meet the three goals of the CRS, which are: (1) reduce flood damage to insurable property; (2) strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP; and (3) encourage a comprehensive approach to floodplain management.
Follow these links to find more local, county and federal flood information:
Santa Cruz County Flood Control District
FEMA’s flood insurance page:
Flood Protection Library:
Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone House, FEMA-347 (2000)
320 Model CRS Info Letter For Certification 2021
Answers to Questions About the National Flood Insurance Program, F-084 (2011)
Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and Other Hazards, FEMA P-85 (2009)
Mitigation of Flood and Erosion Damage to Residential Buildings in Coastal Areas, FEMA-257 (1994)
Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage, FEMA-P-348 (1999)
Protecting Floodplain Resources, FEMA-268 (1996)
Reducing Damage from Localized Flooding, FEMA 511 (2005)
Do You Live in Patagonia?
You May be in the Floodplain
Know Your Floodplain Hazard
Over 60% of the Town is within Flood Hazard Area
Over 80% of the buildings are within the Flood Hazard Area
Patagonia — Know Your Flood Hazard
Insure Your Property For Your Flood Hazard
Ask your insurance agent if you are covered for flood damage.
Renters should buy flood insurance for their contents.
Find Out Today!
Street Flooding Hazard in Patagonia
“If the street is under water, turn around, don’t drown.”
There is a Flooding Hazard in Patagonia
Protect your property from the hazard.
“Store your valuables and insurance papers up high in a waterproof container.”
Build Responsibly in Patagonia
Get a permit from the Town of Patagonia BEFORE YOU BUILD!
Protect Natural Floodplain Functions
Sedimentation is the number one pollutant in Sonoita Creek
Dig and grade carefully to help keep our Creek clean