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Livermore · Building on your lot

Building in a flood zone in Livermore

Livermore's own rules on building in a flood zone, with the code text for every value.

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Each rule below links to the section of the Livermore Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Livermore's code says

Livermore code What Livermore's code adds
Floodplain permit
  • A development permit is needed before construction or development begins.
    Applies: In any area of special flood hazard.
    § 16.12.090 · code text
    A development permit shall be required in conformance with the provisions of this chapter and shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard.
Height of the lowest floor
  • 1 foot above the FIRM depth number, or at least 2 feet if none is given.
    Applies: New or substantially improved homes in an AO zone; measured above the highest adjacent grade.
    § 16.12.120 · code text
    In an AO Zone, elevated above the highest adjacent grade to a height of one foot exceeding the depth number specified in feet on the FIRM, or elevated at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is specified;
  • 1 foot above the base flood elevation.
    Applies: New or substantially improved homes in an A zone; the City sets the base flood elevation.
    § 16.12.120 · code text
    In an A Zone, elevated to one foot above the base flood elevation, as determined by the City;
  • 1 foot above the base flood elevation.
    Applies: New or substantially improved homes in flood zones other than A and AO.
    § 16.12.120 · code text
    In all other zones, elevated to one foot above the base flood elevation.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What are the rules for building in a Livermore flood zone?

Livermore's code: A development permit is needed before construction or development begins. (In any area of special flood hazard.) (§ 16.12.090); 1 foot above the FIRM depth number, or at least 2 feet if none is given. (New or substantially improved homes in an AO zone; measured above the highest adjacent grade.) (§ 16.12.120).

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Livermore's building in a flood zone rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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