Discounts Available on Flood Insurance in Huntington Beach

HUNTINGTON BEACH —  The city has received notice from the Federal Emergency Management Agency that city property owners will be able to get a 5% discount on their flood insurance premiums.

The insurance discount was granted because of a city-initiated effort to reduce flooding risk. The discount is effective Oct. 1.

This saving is granted based on the city’s application to FEMA’s Community Rating System, which offers reductions in insurance premiums to cities that conduct flood plain management activities beyond the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.

Susan Pierce, associate planner, said the city has required new development to be flood-proof or built above the flood plain. Pierce also said the city inspects storm drain channels twice a year instead of once a year.

Flood information from FEMA maps has been computerized to identify Huntington Beach properties within flood plains and determine whether flood insurance is required.

“The city’s increased public safety, reduction of damages to property and public infrastructure, avoidance of economic disruption and losses and protection of the flood plains are among the hallmarks of outstanding public service,” FEMA said in a letter notifying the city of the insurance discount.