Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
VOLUME II—JURISDICTIONAL ANNEXES
May 2026
Prepared For
County of Sonoma | Department of Emergency Management
2300 County Center Drive, Suite B220, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-565-1152 | www.sonomacounty.gov
Prepared By
Tetra Tech | Emergency Management, Risk & Resilience
2301 Lucien Way #120, Maitland, FL 32751
321-441-8500 | www.tetratech.com
#105S045062
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Introduction 1-1
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) encourages multi-jurisdictional planning for local hazard mitigation. Such planning efforts can generate a unified local voice on hazard mitigation, with cross-jurisdictional support for a hazard mitigation plan’s recommended mitigation actions. They also help to form working relationships among participants’ emergency managers, floodplain administrations, and other development agencies (FEMA 2021). Eligible participants for multijurisdiction hazard mitigation plans are local governments defined as follows (44 CFR Section 201.2):
“Any county, municipality, city, town, township, public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of governments (regardless of whether the council of governments is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), regional or interstate government entity, or agency or instrumentality of a local government; any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or Alaska Native village or organization; and any rural community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity.”
In multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation planning, every participating jurisdiction must meet the federal requirements for local mitigation planning. This means that each jurisdiction must actively participate in the planning process and must officially adopt the plan (44 CFR Section 201.6a(4)).
For the Sonoma County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP), a Planning Partnership was formed to leverage resources and to meet the federal local mitigation planning requirements for as many eligible governments in the County as possible. Members of the Planning Partnership consisted of representatives from each participating jurisdiction. Sonoma County was the lead agency for this planning effort and directed the planning process with assistance from a contract planning consultant (Tetra Tech). A Hazard Mitigation Working Group (HMWG) with broad representation across the county provided guidance and direction for the HMP planning process. Each participating planning partner has prepared a jurisdictional annex to this plan.
This chapter describes the Sonoma County HMP Planning Partnership, its responsibilities throughout the planning process, and the jurisdictional annexes developed as a result of the plan update efforts.
The remaining chapters in this volume of the HMP present the annexes for each participating jurisdiction.
1.2 PLANNING PARTNER INVOLVEMENT
1.2.1 Initial Solicitation and Letters of Intent
Sonoma County solicited the participation of all eligible jurisdictions in the County at the commencement of this project. All jurisdictions interested signed a letter of intent and/or a resolution Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Introduction 1-2
committing their participation and resources to the development of the Sonoma County HMP (Appendix A). The following is a list of the jurisdictions that participated in the update process and have met the minimum requirements of participation as established by the County and the HMWG:
• Bodega Bay Public Utility District
• City of Cloverdale
• City of Cotati
• City of Healdsburg
• City of Petaluma
• City of Rohnert Park
• City of Santa Rosa
• City of Sebastopol
• City of Sonoma
• Cloverdale Fire Protection District
• County of Sonoma
• Gold Ridge Fire Protection District
• North Sonoma Coast Fire Protection District
• Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection
District
• Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District
• Santa Rosa Junior College
• Sonoma County Ag and Open Space
• Sonoma County Fire Protection District
• Sonoma Valley Fire Protection District
• Sonoma Water
• Timber Cove Fire Protection District
• Town of Windsor
1.2.2 Planning Partner Expectations
The Planning Partnership is responsible for developing and reviewing draft sections of the hazard mitigation plan, creating the mitigation strategy for their jurisdiction, and adopting the final plan.
Members of the Planning Partnership have the expertise to develop the plan and have their jurisdiction’s authority to implement the mitigation strategy developed during the planning process. The following list of planning partner expectations was agreed to in each letter of commitment:
• Meet the requirements for mitigation plans identified in 44 CFR §201.6 • Provide such cooperation as is necessary and in a timely manner to the County of Sonoma to complete the plan in conformance with FEMA requirements • Identify hazards unique to the jurisdiction and not addressed in the master planning document • Conduct a vulnerability analysis and an identification of risks, where they differ from the general planning area.
• Formulate mitigation goals responsive to public input and development of mitigation actions complementary to those goals
• Demonstrate that there has been proactively offered an opportunity for participation in the planning process, attending meetings, contributing research, data, or other information, commenting on drafts of the plan, etc.
• Document an effective process to maintain and implement the plan • Formal adoption of the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan by the jurisdiction’s governing body
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Under the plan implementation and maintenance protocol established in Volume I of the HMP, it is intended that the Planning Partnership will remain active to support maintenance of the HMP after the plan has been adopted. By adopting this plan, each planning partner agrees to the plan implementation and maintenance protocol. Given that individual commitments change over time, it will be the responsibility of each jurisdiction and its points of contact to inform the County’s coordinator for this HMP of any changes in representation.
1.3 JURISDICTIONAL ANNEX PREPARATION PROCESS
Jurisdictional annexes provide a unique, stand-alone guide to mitigation planning for each jurisdiction participating in a multi-jurisdiction HMP. The Sonoma County HMP is organized so that there is an annex for Sonoma County and one for each of the 22 Planning Partners, including all incorporated municipalities within the County.
Workshops and additional meetings (in person, by email, or by teleconference) to complete the jurisdictional annexes were held with the County, the contract consultant, and the HMWG throughout the planning process. Details regarding these meetings are described further in Volume I. The Cal OES MJLHMP Annex Review Tool was completed to ensure each annex met state requirements.
1.3.1 Incorporation of Information from Previous HMP
In order to facilitate the update of the jurisdictional annexes, data from the most recent County and municipal HMPs was transferred to the most current annex format, which has evolved to meet changing federal and state criteria. Clear instructions were provided to the representatives of each planning partner. This transfer of information provided a basis to address the following:
• Changes in local capabilities and vulnerabilities
• The current status of the 2021 Sonoma County HMP, 2021 Petaluma HMP, 2018 Rohnert Park HMP, and 2022 Sebastopol HMP mitigation strategies
• A new mitigation strategy to address identified issues and to increase community resiliency
1.3.2 Kickoff Meeting
The County invited the Planning Partnership to participate in a planning partner kickoff meeting held on December 4, 2024, to provide an overview of the planning process, including meetings and worksheets that would be used to gather information for annex preparation. Key elements of the worksheets were discussed and subsequently completed by the appropriate jurisdictional personnel for each worksheet.
The worksheets were collected, and the information was incorporated into each jurisdictional annex. In the event additional information was needed, the jurisdictional point of contact was contacted to provide more input into their annex.
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1.3.3 Hazard Ranking Exercise
At the risk assessment meeting on July 29, 2025, the consultant summarized the findings of the risk assessment for the hazards of concern evaluated in this HMP, including an initial ranking of hazards using the risk-related ranking methodology described in Volume I. Each planning partner was asked to review the hazard ranking for its jurisdiction and revise as appropriate based on history of events, probability of occurrence, and the potential impact on people, property, and the economy. This exercise familiarized the planning partners with how to use the risk assessment as a tool to support other planning and hazard mitigation processes and to help prioritize types of mitigation actions that should be considered. Hazards that were ranked as “high” for each jurisdiction as a result of this exercise were considered to be priorities for identifying appropriate mitigation actions, although jurisdictions also identified actions to mitigate “medium” or “low” ranked hazards as appropriate.
1.3.4 Mitigation Strategy Workshop
A mitigation strategy workshop was held on July 29, 2025, to provide an overview on how to develop a strong mitigation strategy. In preparation for this workshop, the consultant provided a list of problem areas and vulnerabilities identified during the planning process, along with feedback from the public survey, to support the development of relevant projects for the mitigation strategy. Workshop participants received the following FEMA publications to use as a resource as part of a comprehensive review of all possible activities and mitigation measures to address hazards of concern:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) This workshop included the development of focused problem statements based on the impacts of natural hazards in the County and its communities. These problem statements provide detailed descriptions of problem areas, including known impacts on the jurisdiction (past damage, loss of service, etc.). Where possible, the statements include the street address of the problem location, adjacent streets, water bodies, and well-known structures as well as a brief description of existing site conditions (topography, terrain, hydrology). The problem statements form a bridge between the risk assessment (which quantifies impacts on each community), the capability assessment (which identifies capabilities for reducing hazard risks and supporting hazard mitigation), and the development of actionable mitigation strategies.
The County and the mitigation consultant worked with each jurisdiction to identify clear, implementable mitigation actions and to further support the completion of the jurisdictional annexes.
1.4 JURISDICTIONAL ANNEX FORMAT
The jurisdictional annex format is designed to document local compliance with the 44 CFR local mitigation planning regulations. It also achieves the following:
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Introduction 1-5
• Providing a locally relevant synthesis of the overall mitigation plan that can be readily presented, distributed, and maintained
• Facilitating local understanding of the community’s risk from natural hazards • Facilitating local understanding of the community’s capabilities to manage natural hazard risk, including opportunities to improve those capabilities
• Facilitating local understanding of the efforts the community has taken, and plans to take, to reduce its natural hazard risk
• Facilitating the implementation of mitigation strategies, including the development of grant applications
• Providing a framework by which the community can continue to capture relevant data and information for future plan updates
The following are the elements of the jurisdictional annex. • Section X.1: Hazard Mitigation Planning Team: Identifies the hazard mitigation planning primary and alternate contacts and floodplain administrator. Provides details on which departments were involved in the development of the jurisdictional annex. The widest range of departments, stakeholders, and persons familiar with the jurisdiction should be involved in the development of the jurisdictional annexes. Further detail on participants is provided in Volume I. • Section X.2: Community Profile: Provides a profile of the jurisdiction, including population and socially vulnerably populations.
• Section X.3: Public Engagement: Summarizes the individual public outreach efforts undertaken by the jurisdiction, including website posts, social media, newsletters, public events, and printed materials in public spaces.
• Section X.4: Stakeholder Engagement: Identifies the stakeholders that each jurisdiction invited to participate in the plan update.
• Section X.5: Changes in Priorities: Identifies jurisdiction changes in priorities since the last HMP.
• Section X.6: Jurisdictional Capability Assessment and Integration: Provides an inventory and evaluation of the jurisdiction’s tools, mechanisms, and resources available to support hazard mitigation and natural hazard risk reduction. Tables provide an inventory of the jurisdiction’s planning, regulatory, administrative, technical, and fiscal capabilities, its level of participation in state and federal programs designed to promote and incentivize local risk reduction efforts, and its adaptive capacity to adjust to damage and respond to consequences. • Section X.7: National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Compliance: Summarizes jurisdiction-specific information related to managing and regulating the regulatory floodplain, including current and future compliance with the NFIP.
• Section X.8: Growth/Development Trends: Summarizes recent and expected future development trends, including major residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development.
• Section X.9: Jurisdictional Risk Assessment: Provides information regarding each jurisdiction’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. Full data and information on the hazards of Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Introduction 1-6
concern, the methodology used to develop the vulnerability assessments, and the results of those assessments that serve as the basis of these local hazard rankings may be found in Volume I.
• Hazard Area: Each annex includes a map (or series of maps) illustrating identified hazard zones and critical facilities. The maps also show areas of known or anticipated future development, as available.
• Hazard Event History: Identifies hazard events that have caused significant impacts within the jurisdiction, including a summary characterization of those impacts identified by the jurisdiction.
• Hazard Ranking and Vulnerabilities: Each jurisdiction has differing degrees of risk exposure and vulnerability. The local hazard ranking identifies each jurisdiction’s local degree of risk to each hazard, supporting the selection and prioritization of actions to reduce the highest levels of risk for each community.
• Critical Facilities: Identifies potential flood losses to critical facilities in the jurisdiction based on the flood vulnerability assessment process presented in Volume I. • Identified Issues: Presents other specific hazard vulnerabilities as identified by the jurisdiction.
• Section X.10: Mitigation Strategy and Prioritization: Discusses and provides the status of past mitigation actions and status and describes proposed hazard mitigation actions and prioritization.
• Past Mitigation Action Status: Where applicable, a review of progress on the jurisdiction’s prior mitigation strategy is presented, identifying the disposition of each prior action in the jurisdiction’s updated mitigation strategy. Other completed or ongoing mitigation activities that were not specifically part of a prior local mitigation strategy may be included in this subsection as well.
• Completed Mitigation Actions Not Identified in the Previous Mitigation Strategy: Other completed or ongoing mitigation activities that were not specifically part of a prior local mitigation strategy may be included in this subsection as well. • Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the Plan Update: Tables and action worksheets at the end of each annex present the jurisdiction’s updated mitigation strategy, a summary of the local mitigation strategy prioritization and a summary of the action categories and hazards addressed.
Each jurisdiction’s annex is a living document that will continue to be improved as resources permit.
Continued efforts to maintain the annex will ensure that it remains current and will improve its effectiveness as the key tool, reference, and guiding document by which the jurisdiction will implement hazard mitigation locally.
1.5 COVERAGE UNDER THE PLAN
Of the 22 original planning partners, 22 fully met the participation requirements specified by the HMWG and have annexes included in this volume. Those that did not meet the requirements will not be able to Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
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seek FEMA or state approval at the time of plan submittal, nor will they be eligible to obtain FEMA grant funding. Table 1-1 lists the status of each jurisdiction. Note that participation in scheduled Planning Partnership meetings provides only a partial indication of the level of participation of each jurisdiction.
Appendices in Volume I provide details on further participation and meeting attendance.
Table 1-1. Jurisdictional Status
Letter of
Intent to
Participate
Attended
Workshops,
Meetings, and Calls
Provided
Update on
Past Projects
Submitted
Mitigation Actions
for Current Plan
Seeking Approval for
Adoption (meets all
previous requirements)
Bodega Bay Public
Utility District
X X - X X
City of Cloverdale X X - X X
City of Cotati X X X X X
City of Healdsburg X X - X X
City of Petaluma X X X X X
City of Rohnert Park X X - X X
City of Santa Rosa X X X X X
City of Sebastopol X X - X X
City of Sonoma X X X X X
Cloverdale Fire
Protection District
X X X X X
County of Sonoma - X X X X
Gold Ridge Fire
Protection District
X X X X X
North Sonoma Coast
Fire Protection District
X X X X X
Northern Sonoma
County Fire Protection
District
X X X X X
Rancho Adobe Fire
Protection District
X X X X X
Santa Rosa Junior
College
X X - X X
Sonoma County Ag
and Open Space
X X X X X
Sonoma County Fire
Protection District
X X - X X
Sonoma Valley Fire
Protection District
X X X X X
Sonoma Water X X - X X
Timber Cove Fire
Protection District
X X X X X
Town of Windsor X X X X X
X = yes; - = N/A
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4. CITY OF COTATI
This jurisdictional annex to the Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) provides information to assist public and private sectors in the City of Cotati with reducing losses from future hazard events.
This annex is not guidance for what to do when a disaster occurs; the focus is actions that can be implemented prior to a disaster to reduce or eliminate damage to the people, property, environment, or economy of the City. The annex presents a general overview of Cotati, describes who participated in the planning process, assesses local risk, vulnerability, and capabilities, and outlines a strategy for achieving a more resilient community.
4.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING TEAM
The City of Cotati identified primary and alternate HMP points of contact and developed this plan over the course of several months, with input from many City departments. The City Manager’s Office represented the community on the Sonoma County HMP Planning Partnership and Hazard Mitigation Working Group and supported the local planning process by securing input from persons with specific knowledge to enhance the plan. All departments were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment, reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.
The City officials who participated in the development of the annex are listed below and shown in Table 4-1. Additional documentation of the City’s planning activities through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Volume I.
Primary Point of Contact: Katie Duran, Senior Management Analyst Address: 201 W. Sierra Ave, Cotati, CA 94931
Phone Number: 707-665-3624
Email: [email protected]
Alternate Point of Contact: Damien O’Bid, City Manager
Address: 201 W. Sierra Ave, Cotati, CA 94931
Phone Number: 707-665-3622
Email: [email protected]
NFIP Administrator: Craig Scott, Director – Public Works/Engineering Address: 201 W. Sierra Ave, Cotati, CA 94931
Phone Number: 707-665-3620
Email: [email protected]
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Table 4-1. Additional Contributors
Name Department Position HMP Contribution
Katie Duran City Manager’s Office Senior Management Analyst Planning Team, Working Group Damien O’Bid City Manager’s Office City Manager Worksheets, review and approve Craig Scott Public Works/Engineering Director Worksheets, review and approve Noah Housh Community Development Director Worksheets, review and approve
4.2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
The City of Cotati, an incorporated city in Sonoma County, is 45 miles north of San Francisco along the U.S. 101 corridor, between the cities of Rohnert Park and Petaluma. Cotati was incorporated on July 2, 1963, after the land to the north was incorporated to form Rohnert Park. Voters approved Cotati's incorporation as a separate city by a margin of 284 to 41.
The City covers 1.89 square miles, with 0.53 percent of this area consisting of water. Cotati is about 17 miles from the Pacific Ocean and lies entirely within the drainage basin of the Laguna de Santa Rosa. The Petaluma River watershed begins just south of the city, and the Stemple Creek watershed is to the west. The sources of all three watercourses are in the hilly area between Stony Point Road and U.S. 101, just west of Cotati.
A gap in the coastal ridges near Petaluma often allows coastal fog to reach Cotati during the summer, resulting in a marine climate that is noticeably cooler and less sunny than the coastal climates of nearby Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. Cotati averages fewer than 800 hours per growing season in the 70 to 90 °F range.
The City of Cotati is governed by a five-member city council and comprises five departments:
Administrative Services, Community Development, Public Works/Engineering, Police, and the City Manager's Office. The City Council is responsible for adopting this plan, and the City Manager will oversee its implementation.
According to the U.S. Census, the 2020 population for Cotati was 7,584, a 4.0 percent increase from the 2010 Census. The 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) estimated that the 2023 population of Cotati was 7,533; this estimate is used throughout the HMP.
Populations with decreased resources or physical abilities can be more susceptible to hazard events based factors including their physical and financial ability to react or respond during a hazard, and the location and construction quality of their housing. Data from the ACS indicates that 5.3 percent of residents are 5 years of age or younger, 14.9 percent are 65 years of age or older, 1.7 percent are nonEnglish speaking, 8.0 percent live below the poverty threshold, 10.9 percent have disabilities, and
3.0 percent live in a single parent household.
In 2024, the total homeless population in Cotati was reported as 31 individuals: 10 sheltered and 21 unsheltered persons (Sonoma County 2024).
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4.3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Volume I of this HMP describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. In addition to that work, the City of Cotati completed specific activities to collect input on hazards and vulnerability from the people the City serves. The public was invited to participate in the plan by responding to the public survey, attending a virtual Hazard Mitigation Working Group meeting, attending an in-person meeting, and reviewing the draft plan.
Figure 4-1 and Figure 4-2 highlight various public outreach initiatives undertaken by the City. In January 2025, the City published an article about its participation in the HMP update and distributed a newsletter to residents. The newsletter was also posted on the City website. In April 2025, the City designed a flyer to promote its participation in the HMP update and to advertise the Public Survey. The flyer was posted on bulletin boards at three locations around the City, where Council and Planning Commission agendas are regularly displayed.
Figure 4-1. City of Cotati Newsletter and Flyer
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Figure 4-2. Cotati Website
The flyer was posted at the following locations:
• City of Cotati City Hall – 201 West Sierra Ave, Cotati • Veteran’s Memorial Building – 8505 Park Ave, Cotati
• Smart Station – 970 E Cotati Ave, Cotati
The following targeted outreach was made to underserved communities and vulnerable populations:
• Publication and surveys both in English and Spanish were posted on website and social media, in a hard copy newsletter to all residents, and on public bulletin boards. Informational flyers were handed out at the Wednesday evening Farmer’s Market from June through October.
During the update of the HMP, opportunities were provided for public input; however, no feedback was received. As a result, no additional information regarding specific hazards or vulnerabilities in the City was contributed through community engagement activities.
4.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Volume I of this HMP describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. In addition to that work, the City of Cotati invited Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-5
stakeholders relevant to its planning process to participate by attending a Hazard Mitigation Working Group meeting, responding to the stakeholder survey, contributing information and expertise to the plan, and reviewing the draft plan. The following sections outline the organizations invited by the City to participate in the 2026 HMP update.
4.4.1 Local and Regional Agencies Involved in Hazard Mitigation Activities
The planning process included active participation from local and regional agencies with direct responsibilities in hazard mitigation. Public works and engineering departments contributed infrastructure data and identified vulnerabilities. Emergency management officials provided guidance on preparedness and response capabilities. Fire protection services and regional water agencies offered insights into wildfire risk, water infrastructure, and emergency response coordination. These agencies played a key role in shaping mitigation strategies and ensuring alignment with existing emergency plans.
• Public Works/Engineering
• Sonoma County Emergency Management
• Rancho Adobe Fire District
• Sonoma Water
4.4.2 Agencies that Have the Authority to Regulate Development Agencies with regulatory authority over land use and development were engaged to ensure that mitigation strategies could be effectively integrated into local planning frameworks. This included community development and building departments, planning commissions, and city councils.
Environmental health officials also participated, offering expertise on regulatory requirements related to public health and safety. Their involvement ensured that proposed actions were feasible and aligned with local codes and ordinances.
• Community Development
• Building Department
• Planning Commission
• City Council
• Sonoma County Environmental Health
4.4.3 Neighboring Communities
Neighboring jurisdictions and institutions were invited to participate in the planning process to promote regional coordination and address shared risks. This included adjacent cities, local fire protection districts, and academic institutions. Their involvement helped identify interdependencies, such as shared infrastructure and emergency services, and supported the development of coordinated mitigation strategies across jurisdictional boundaries.
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• City of Rohnert Park
• Sonoma State University
• Rancho Adobe Fire District
• City of Petaluma
4.4.4 Representatives of Business, Academia, and Other Private Organizations
The planning team engaged representatives from the business community, academic institutions, and private sector organizations. Local businesses and utility providers contributed perspectives on economic resilience and infrastructure continuity. Academic institutions provided technical expertise and helped assess long-term risks. This diverse input helped ensure that the plan addressed the needs of the broader community and supported public-private collaboration in mitigation efforts. • Sonoma State University
• Cotati Rohnert Park School District
• Cotati Chamber of Commerce
• PG&E
• Graton Casino
• Lowes
• Olivers Market
4.4.5 Nonprofit Organizations and Community-Based
Organizations
Nonprofit and community-based organizations were included to ensure that the needs of vulnerable populations were considered in the planning process. These organizations offered valuable insights into community outreach, emergency support services, and equity considerations. Their participation helped strengthen the plan’s focus on inclusive and accessible mitigation strategies. • SAFE Team (Specialized Assistance for Everyone)
• Red Cross
4.5 CHANGES IN COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
There have been no changes in priorities for the City of Cotati since the 2021 HMP update.
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4.6 JURISDICTIONAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT AND
INTEGRATION
Cotati performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Volume I describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation planning. The jurisdictional assessment for this annex includes analyses of the following:
• Planning and regulatory capabilities
• Development and permitting capabilities
• Administrative and technical capabilities
• Fiscal capabilities
• Education and outreach capabilities
• Classification under various community mitigation programs • Adaptive capacity to withstand hazard events
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into dayto-day local government operations. As part of the hazard mitigation analysis, planning and policy documents were reviewed and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of its progress toward plan integration. Development of an updated mitigation strategy provided an opportunity for Cotati to identify opportunities for integrating mitigation concepts into ongoing City procedures.
4.6.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Planning and regulatory capabilities include the plans, policies, codes, and ordinances that help prevent or reduce the impacts of hazards. The sections below outline the relevant planning documents, codes, and regulations that were reviewed and considered for updates based on new data or insights gained during the HMP update process. Additionally, the HMP Team evaluated existing plans against a comprehensive list of hazard mitigation-related capabilities. The absence of certain types of plans, policies, codes, or ordinances was not interpreted as a gap in local capabilities. For a comprehensive list of state codes relevant to hazard mitigation in California, please refer to the capability assessment in Volume I.
Codes, Ordinances, and Regulations
Table 4-2 summarizes the codes, ordinances, and regulations available to the City of Cotati.
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Table 4-2. City of Cotati Codes, Ordinances, and Regulations Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Building Code Cotati Municipal Code
(CMC), Title 14, Chapter
14.04, Section 14.04.030
adopts the California
Building Code; Ordinance
887 §2 (part), 2019:
Ordinance 864 § 2 (part),
2016: Ordinance 843 § 1
(part), 2013: Ordinance 829
§ 1 (part), 2011: Ordinance
815 § 1(part), 2008
The City of Cotati has adopted the 2022
California Building Code by reference, which
includes provisions on earthquake safety, wind
damage, and general safety and welfare of
building inhabitants.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Zoning/ Land
Use Code
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
17, Chapters 17.20 – 17.28;
Ord. 766 § 2 Exhibit A
(part), 2004
The CMC includes multiple development
standards that further implement criteria to help
mitigate impacts from natural disasters and
hazards. These include land use limitations;
road width requirements; building set-backs,
slope protections and limitations; and parking
and loading standards. The HMP can count on
these criteria being enforced and in place as
new development occurs within the City and
can therefore base disaster responses and
evacuation plans on such standards. Further,
most actions regulated by the CMC are
discretionary in nature, requiring analysis under
the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA). CEQA includes protections and
mitigation requirements for any new
development occurring within natural hazard
areas; seeks to prohibit development within
wetlands, floodways and floodplains; and
ensures adequate emergency responses are
available to serve any new development or
proposed use.
The new state LRA fire maps indicate that the
City of Cotati is not in high or very high hazard
severity zones.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Subdivision
Code
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
17, Chapter 17.70, Sections
010-120; Ordinance 766 § 2
Exhibit A (part), 2004
The Subdivision section of the municipal code
ensures adequate stormwater management is
in place for any newly subdivided properties;
includes provisions to allow clustering of units to
preserve natural resources to allow
minimization of hazards and/or impacts on
natural resources.
Municipal Community
Development
Department,
Public Works
Department, and
City of Cotati
Site Plan Code Cotati Municipal Code, Title
17, Chapter 17.42, Sections
010-210; Ordinance 766 § 2
Exhibit. A (part), 2004
The Site Plan section of the municipal code
ensures site planning for specified land uses
and calls for mitigation for any adverse impacts.
Municipal Community
Development
Department,
Public Works
Department, and
City of Cotati
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Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Stormwater
Management
Code
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
13, Chapter 13.68, Sections
010-230; Ordinance 870
§ 2(part), 2017: Ordinance
795 § 1(part), 2007:
Ordinance 759 § 1(part),
2004
The City of Cotati utilizes and implements the
City of Santa Rosa Stormwater Design Manual
to ensure all stormwater management criteria
required by the City’s MS-4 permit from the
Water Quality Control Board are satisfied and
implemented, both on public and private
property.
Municipal Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Post-Disaster
Recovery/
Reconstruction
Code
Sonoma County Recovery
and Resiliency Framework,
December 2018
This framework recognizes the danger of
natural disasters, especially after the Sonoma
Complex Fires, and aims to develop a
coordinated, County-wide approach to disaster
preparedness.
County City-Wide
Real Estate
Disclosure
California State Civil Code
1102 requires disclosure for
all sales of real property.
Sellers must disclose certain information about
a property to prospective buyers, including
information on environmental hazards.
State State of
California
Growth
Management
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
17, Chapter 17.52, Sections
010-050; Ordinance 766 § 2
Exhibit A (part), 2004;
growth management is also
covered within the city’s
General Plan.
According to CMC Chapter 17.52.010 Purpose,
“This chapter provides growth management
procedures to phase the construction of new
dwellings within the city so that new
development does not exceed the resource,
infrastructure, and public service capacities of
the city.” However, growth management
ordinances have been (temporarily) prohibited
from implementation by recent changes in state
law (SB 330, Housing Crisis Act) and the
Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) has been pushing local
jurisdictions to repeal any growth management
ordinances. Based on this, growth management
should not be counted on to assist with HMP
implementation or risk reduction.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Environmental
Protection
Ordinance
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
17, Chapters 17.54,
Sections 010-080 (tree
preservation and protection)
& 17.56, Sections (wetland
protection and restoration);
Ordinance 766 § 2 Exhibit A
(part), 2004 covers both
chapters.
CMC Chapter 17.54 requires tree removal
permits for tree removals, which must be
approved by city staff, who determine whether
the tree is considered a hazard and shall be
removed. 17.56.040 General wetland
preservation and enhancement standards
protects existing wetlands and aims for “no net
loss” of these areas. The associated protections
and mitigation can help to reduce hazard risk.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-10
Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Flood Damage
Prevention
Ordinance
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
15, Chapter 15.04, section
040—methods of reducing
flood losses; Ordinance 819
§ 2(part), 2008: Ordinance
667 § 2(part), 1997
CMC 15.04.040 Methods of reducing flood
losses. Outlines regulations to:
A. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous
to health, safety, and property due to water or
erosion hazards, or which result in damaging
increases in erosion or flood heights or
velocities
B. Require that uses vulnerable to floods,
including facilities which serve such uses, be
protected against flood damage at the time of
initial construction
C. Control the alteration of natural floodplains,
stream channels, and natural protective
barriers, which help accommodate or channel
floodwaters
D. Control filling, grading, dredging, and other
development which may increase flood damage
E. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood
barriers which will unnaturally divert floodwaters
or which may increase flood hazards in other
areas. (Ord. 819 § 2(part), 2008: Ord. 667
§ 2(part), 1997)
Wetland protection is managed through the
CEQA process, with any new development or
infrastructure project being required to avoid or
mitigate for impacts to identified wetlands. It is
unclear how this would be integrated into the
HMP but flooding risks are reduced when
wetlands are preserved and/or thoughtfully
mitigated to ensure the loss of their function
does not allow flood impacts to occur.
Municipal Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Wellhead
Protection
Cotati Municipal Code Title
13, Chapters 13.02-13.30
City Water Systems, etc.
Regulations governing public water supply and
augmentation of this supply through the
pumping of well water into the system.
Municipal
and State
Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Emergency
Management
Ordinance
Cotati Municipal Code, Title
2, Chapter 2.24 Emergency
Organization and
Functions, Sections 010-
080—discusses the Cotati
Disaster Council’s roles and
duties; 2.24.080 Emergency
Plan—The Cotati Disaster
Council shall be responsible
for the development of the
city emergency plan.
Integrating an emergency management
ordinance with a hazard mitigation plan reduces
risk by legally supporting proactive actions,
aligning planning with response, and ensuring
resources and policies are in place to prevent or
lessen disaster impacts.
Municipal City Manager’s
Office
Planning Documents
Table 4-3 summarizes the planning documents available to the City of Cotati.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-11
Table 4-3. City of Cotati Planning Documents
Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
General Plan Cotati General Plan,
Adopted 03/24/2015—
safety element
discusses seismic,
geologic, and flooding
hazards in addition to
flood protection
measures.
The City general plan identifies natural resource
areas and prioritizes development outside of these
resource areas. Adequate additional land is
available outside the City boundary but within the
sphere of influence to accommodate all projected
growth and avoid sensitive natural resources and
hazard areas.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Capital
Improvement
Plan
City of Cotati Capital
Improvement Program
(CIP) FYs 2020/21 –
2024/25 – the plan is
updated every 5 years.
The CIP annual adoption process allows Planning
Commission and Community Development
Department review of the proposed project list to
ensure compliance with the Cotati General Plan.
This review ensures adequate limitations on
spending that would encourage development in
areas vulnerable to natural hazards. Further, the
General Plan includes policies that limit extension
of infrastructure that would encourage growth in
vulnerable areas. Lastly, the CIP process
considers the FEMA Mitigation Plan when projects
are being considered and prioritized.
Municipal Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Floodplain
Management or
Watershed Plan
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 15.04
Floodplain Management
This ordinance supports the HMP by regulating
development in flood-prone areas, reducing flood
risk and property damage.
Municipal Public Works
Department,
and City of
Cotati
Stormwater
Management
Plan
Phase II National
Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System
(NPDES) Storm Water
Management Plan,
March 2005
This plan aligns with the HMP by managing runoff
and reducing localized flooding and water
pollution during storm events.
Municipal Public Works
Department,
and City of
Cotati
Stormwater
Pollution
Prevention Plan
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 13.68
Stormwater Ordinance
This ordinance helps the HMP by preventing
pollutants from entering waterways, protecting
water quality and reducing environmental hazards.
Municipal Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Open Space
Plan
General Plan
Conservation Element
Chapter 5 and Cotati
Municipal Code Chapter
17 Land Use
The City General Plan Conservation Chapter
identifies natural resource areas, including open
space and prioritizes development outside of
these resource areas. Further, zoning standards
require specific amounts of open space for
residential development and limit the amount of
impervious lot coverage allowed as a component
of individual developments. Zoning standards for
parking lot development also require a specified
amount of shade coverage.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Urban Water
Management
Plan
Sonoma Water 2015
Urban Water
Management Plan—
City of Cotati is
referenced as having
participated in the
development of the plan
This plan supports the HMP by promoting longterm water supply reliability and conservation, helping to reduce drought-related risks and ensure
emergency water availability.
County Sonoma Water
and County of
Sonoma
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-12
Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Habitat
Conservation
Plan
In Process In 2024, the County of Sonoma initiated a process to draft a Habitat Conservation Plan to address
the resource management and protection
requirements for identified sensitive and
endangered species, with the goal of taking an
ecosystem management approach. This effort is
in the initial phases but is anticipated to identify
and map environmental systems with the goal of
protection and preservation, restore habitat and
ecosystem ranges and draft environmental
policies and procedures to ensure successful
management of these species and resources.
County Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Economic
Development
Strategy
In Process in 2025-
Economic Development
Strategy and
Implementation
Program; also economic
vitality chapter within
the general plan.
This strategy supports the HMP by promoting
resilient economic growth, encouraging hazardaware development, and helping businesses recover more quickly after disasters.
Municipal City Manager
and Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Community
Wildfire
Protection Plan
Sonoma County
Community Wildfire
Protection Plan
In June 2023, the Sonoma County Community
Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) was formally
integrated into the Sonoma County Annex of the
Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP)
by reference. This integration ensures that
wildfire-specific strategies from the CWPP are
aligned with the broader, multi-hazard framework
of the HMP. By linking the two plans, Sonoma
County strengthens its ability to reduce risk
through coordinated planning, resource sharing,
and project implementation. The HMP addresses
a wide range of hazards—including floods,
earthquakes, landslides, and severe weather—
while the CWPP provides a focused approach to
wildfire mitigation. Together, these plans support
comprehensive risk assessment, prioritize
mitigation actions, and enhance eligibility for state
and federal funding, ultimately reducing the
County’s overall vulnerability to disasters.
County Permit Sonoma
Fire Prevention
Division
Transportation
Plan
2015 General Plan
Circulation Element
Chapter 2; 2024 Active
Transportation Plan
These transportation planning documents limit
access to hazard areas and are used to guide and
prioritize growth in safe directions. Further, these
documents identify future circulation infrastructure
to ensure orderly transportation options are
available to public safety staff as growth occurs.
These plans prioritize growth near transportation
and transit hubs, with a focus on promoting
compact mixed-use development away from
hazard areas.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
Public Works
Department and
City of Cotati
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-13
Capability Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Climate Action/
Resilience/
Sustainability
Plan
Sonoma County
Regional Climate Action
Plan, July 2016—City of
Cotati website links to
this plan, contents list
actions taken within
general plan and
through code &
ordinance adoption.
City of Cotati has a
focus on Climate and
Sustainability.
https://cacotati.civicplus.com/148
5/Climate-andSustainability
The Sonoma County Climate Plan is integrated
with the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
(HMP) through shared goals, aligned strategies,
and cross-referenced planning documents.
Several of the Climate Plan’s 54 measures—
particularly those related to wildfire, water, and
natural lands—were informed by and support the
risk reduction strategies outlined in the HMP. By
aligning with key regional plans, including the
HMP, the Climate Plan enhances the County’s
ability to address climate-related hazards such as
wildfires, drought, and extreme weather. This
integration strengthens long-term resilience by
coordinating mitigation actions across sectors,
reducing emissions, increasing carbon storage,
and protecting vulnerable infrastructure and
populations from future climate impacts.
County and
Local
(regional
partnership)
County of
Sonoma, City of
Cotati
Business/
Downtown
Development/
Redevelopment
Plan
Downtown Specific Plan The City of Cotati Downtown Specific Plan governs and regulates development within the
downtown boundaries of the City. This Plan,
combined with the zoning standards and building
code, regulates the development pattern,
construction methods and occupancy of buildings
within the downtown. This plan prioritizes growth
near transportation and transit hubs, with a focus
on promoting compact mixed-use development
away from hazard areas.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Other Plan Santero Way Specific
Plan, Adopted February
2025
This plan includes a goal to increase residential
development and commercial activities around the
SMART Station. This effort was funded by a grant
from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission
and the Association of Bay Area Governments
and incorporates their Transit Oriented
Communities policies, focused on the core
elements of land use density, affordable housing,
parking management and multimodal access.
Municipal Community
Development
Department
Response and Recovery Planning Documents
Table 4-4 summarizes the response and recovery planning documents for the City of Cotati.
Table 4-4. City of Cotati Response/Recovery Planning Documents Capability
Type Citation and Date HMP Integration and Risk Reduction Authority Responsible
Department or
Agency
Emergency
Operations
Plan
City of Cotati
Emergency Operations
Plan—updated 2019
This plan complements the HMP by outlining
coordinated response procedures for disasters, helping
to reduce impacts and speed up recovery efforts.
Municipal City Manager’s
Office and City of
Cotati
Public
Health
Plan
Cotati General Plan
Community Health &
Wellness Element,
Chapter 3
The Community Health and Wellness Element
primarily relies on the Land Use and Safety Element
for policies related to the HMP and risk reduction.
Municipal Community
Development
Department and
City of Cotati
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-14
4.6.2 Integration
Table 4-2 through Table 4-4 list the local planning mechanisms currently in place for the City of Cotati.
Several of these mechanisms, such as the General Plan, Building Code, Zoning Code, and Capital Improvement Plan, already incorporate hazard-related policies, including seismic safety standards, floodplain development restrictions, and growth management strategies.
The HMP builds on these foundations by identifying mitigation actions that align with and support existing policies, ensuring that hazard mitigation is not treated as a standalone effort but as a coordinated component of broader community planning. As these local plans are updated, information from the HMP, such as risk assessments, vulnerability data, and prioritized projects, can be incorporated to maintain consistency and reinforce long-term resilience goals.
This integration enhances the City’s overall risk management framework and ensures that future HMP updates are informed by comprehensive, data-driven insights. By aligning planning efforts across departments and documents, the City strengthens its ability to mitigate risks and adapt to evolving environmental conditions.
4.6.3 Development and Permitting Capability
Table 4-5 summarizes the capabilities of Cotati to oversee and track development.
Table 4-5. Development and Permitting Capability
Yes/No Comment
Do you issue development permits?
• If you issue development permits, what
department is responsible?
• If you do not issue development permits,
what is your process for tracking new
development?
Yes Community Development Department
Are permits tracked by hazard area? (For
example, floodplain development permits.)
Yes –
Do you have a buildable land inventory? Yes
• If you have a buildable land inventory,
please describe
-
Describe the level of buildout in your
jurisdiction.
N/A A majority of the available parcels are developed,
but many (approximately 25%) are
underdeveloped. There are some undeveloped
parcels, many of which are owned by developers.
4.6.4 Administrative and Technical Capability
Table 4-6 through Table 4-7 summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to Cotati and their current responsibilities that contribute to hazard mitigation. To expand and improve these Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-15
capabilities, the City could explore the creation of a mitigation planning committee, open space board, or economic development committee.
Table 4-6. Administrative Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment
Planning Board Yes Planning Commission serves this role Zoning Board of Adjustment Yes Planning Commission serves this role Planning Department Yes -
Mitigation Planning Committee No -
Environmental Board/Commission Yes Planning Commission serves this role.
Open Space Board/Committee No -
Economic Development Commission/Committee No -
Public Works/Highway Department Yes Public Works Department Construction/Building/Code Enforcement Department Yes Community Development Department Emergency Management/Public Safety Department Yes City Manager’s Office leads Emergency Management, supported by the Police
Department
Maintenance programs to reduce risk (stormwater
maintenance, tree trimming, etc.)
Yes Public Works Department
Mutual aid agreements Yes With multiple jurisdictions throughout the County
Human Resources Manual - Do any job descriptions
specifically include identifying or implementing
mitigation projects or other efforts to reduce natural
hazard risk?
Yes City Manager’s Office and available on
the City website
Other - -
Table 4-7. Technical/Staffing Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment
Planners or engineers with knowledge of land
development and land management practices
Yes Community Development
Engineers or professionals trained in building or
infrastructure construction practices
Yes Public Works/Engineering Department
Planners or engineers with an understanding of
natural hazards
Yes Community Development and Public
Works/Engineering Department
Staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost
analysis
Yes Administrative Services Department
Professionals trained in conducting damage
assessments
Yes The City contracts with building
department staff, including a certified
Building Official and Building Inspectors
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or Hazus
applications
Yes Public Works/Engineering Department
Staff that work with socially vulnerable populations
or underserved communities
Yes SAFE Team
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-16
Resources Available? Comment
Environmental scientists familiar with natural
hazards
No -
Surveyors Yes Public Works/Engineering Department
Emergency manager Yes Police Department
Grant writers No -
Resilience Officer No -
Other (this could include stormwater engineer,
environmental specialist, etc.)
No -
4.6.5 Fiscal Capability
Table 4-8 summarizes financial resources available to Cotati. To expand and improve these capabilities, the City could explore incurring debt through private activity bonds or withholding public expenditures in hazard-prone areas.
Table 4-8. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources
Accessible or Eligible to
Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) Yes
Capital improvement project funding Yes
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes Yes
User fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric service Yes – water and sewer Impact fees for homebuyers or developers of new development/homes Yes Stormwater utility fee No
Incur debt through general obligation bonds Yes, with voter approval Incur debt through special tax bonds Yes
Incur debt through private activity bonds No
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas No
Other federal or state funding programs Yes
Open Space Acquisition funding programs Yes
Other (for example, Clean Water Act 319 Grants [Nonpoint Source Pollution]) N/A
4.6.6 Education and Outreach Capability
Table 4-9 summarizes the education and outreach resources available to Cotati. To expand and improve these capabilities, the City could explore the creation of a natural disaster safety program for schools.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-17
Table 4-9. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Outreach Resources Available? Comment
Public information officer or communications office Yes City Manager’s Office Personnel skilled or trained in website development Yes Administrative Services Department Hazard mitigation information available on your
website
Yes Disaster Preparedness Information and
Materials
Social media for hazard mitigation education and
outreach
Yes Facebook and Instagram
Citizen boards or commissions that address issues
related to hazard mitigation
Yes Planning Commission
Warning systems for hazard events Yes Civic Alert, SoCo Alert Natural disaster/safety programs in place for schools No - Organizations that conduct outreach to socially
vulnerable populations and underserved populations
Yes City contracts with the Sonoma County
Development Commission to provide all
housing services targeting vulnerable
and under-served communities
Public outreach mechanisms / programs to inform the
public on natural hazards, risk, and ways to protect
themselves during such events
Yes Civic Alert
4.6.7 Community Classifications
Table 4-10 summarizes classifications for community programs available to Cotati.
Table 4-10. Community Classifications
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Community Rating System (CRS) No - -
Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule No - -
Public Protection (ISO Fire Protection Classes 1 to
10)
Yes – Rancho Adobe
Fire Protection District
within City of Cotati
Limits
5 -
National Weather Service StormReady Certification No - - Firewise Communities Classification No - -
Other: Organizations with mitigation focus
(advocacy group, non-government)
N/A - -
N/A = Not applicable; — = Unavailable
4.6.8 Adaptive Capacity
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2022). Each jurisdiction has a unique combination of capabilities to adjust to, protect from, and Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-18
withstand a future hazard event, future conditions, and changing risk. Table 4-11 summarizes the adaptive capacity for each identified hazard of concern and the City’s capability to address related actions using the following classifications:
• Strong adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does have the capability to effectively respond, plans/policies exceed minimum requirements; deployable resources all of which decreases vulnerability.
• Moderate adaptive capacity means minimum requirements are in place; moderate capabilities; mitigation measures are identified but not implemented widespread; jurisdiction can recover but needs outside resources.
• Weak adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does not have the capability to effectively respond, which leads to an increase in vulnerability. Examples include weak, outdated, or inconsistent plans, policies, codes, or ordinances in place; no redundancies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery.
Table 4-11. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity - Strong/Moderate/Weak
Dam Failure Moderate
Drought Moderate
Earthquake Moderate
Extreme Cold Moderate
Extreme Heat Moderate
Extreme Wind Moderate
Flood Moderate
Landslide Moderate
Sea Level Rise Moderate
Tsunami Moderate
Wildfire Moderate
4.7 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
This section provides information on the management and regulation of the regulatory floodplain, including current and future compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The floodplain administrator listed in Section 4.1 is responsible for maintaining this information.
The City has adopted the NFIP minimum floodplain management criteria via local regulation. The latest Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) was adopted by the City on December 2, 2008. The Director of Public Works and Engineering is responsible for implementing the requirements of the NFIP by requiring permits for all development within SFHAs shown on the latest FIRM. The Director of Public Works and Engineering reviews proposed development for compliance with applicable floodplain standards, including elevation or floodproofing, floodway restrictions, and certification requirements.
Compliance is enforced through permit conditions, inspections, and documentation, with enforcement Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-19
actions taken as necessary to address non-compliant development and maintain consistency with NFIP.
The City implements the substantial improvement/substantial damage provisions of its floodplain management regulations by requiring property owners, following a damaging event or proposed improvement, to submit a detailed cost estimate prepared by a licensed contractor, along with documentation of the structure’s pre-event market value, typically based on an appraisal or local taxassessed value. Cost estimates are reviewed and evaluated in accordance with FEMA P-758, which defines costs that must be included and excluded when determining substantial improvement or substantial damage. The Director of Public Works and Engineering uses this documentation to determine whether the cost of repairs or improvements equals or exceeds 50 percent of the structure’s market value. If that threshold is met, the structure is classified as substantially damaged or substantially improved and must be brought into full compliance with current floodplain management standards as a condition of permit approval. The jurisdiction documents the determination and enforces compliance through its permitting authority.
While the City participates in the NFIP, it does not participate in the CRS. Table 4-12 provides a summary of NFIP compliance in Cotati.
Table 4-12. NFIP Compliance
Question Comments
What local department is responsible for floodplain management? Public Works and Engineering Are any certified floodplain managers on staff in your jurisdiction? No Do you have access to resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change?
Yes
Does your floodplain management staff need any assistance or training to support its floodplain management program?
If so, what type of assistance/training is needed?
Yes
Updating regulations and standards
Provide an explanation of NFIP administration services you provide (e.g., permit review, GIS, education/outreach, inspections, engineering capability) Flood services include development
review for consistency with flood
standards and making FEMA flood
zones accessible to public via GIS.
How do you determine if proposed development on an existing structure would qualify as a substantial improvement?
Development review
What are the barriers to running an effective NFIP program in the community, if any?
Unsure
Does your jurisdiction have any outstanding NFIP compliance violations that need to be addressed?
If so, state the violations.
No
When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit (CAV) or Community Assistance Contact (CAC)?
2018
What is the local law number or municipal code of your flood damage prevention ordinance?
Chapter 15.04 of the Cotati
Municipal Code
What is the date that your flood damage prevention ordinance was last amended?
2008
Does your floodplain management program meet or exceed minimum requirements?
If exceeds, in what ways?
Meets
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-20
Question Comments
Are there other local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g., site plan review) that support floodplain management and meeting the NFIP requirements? For instance, does the planning board or zoning board consider efforts to reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions? No
Does your community plan to join the CRS program or is your community interested in improving your CRS classification?
No
4.7.1 Repetitive Loss
The OpenFEMA NFIP Multiple Loss Properties dataset was analyzed to gain an understanding of repetitive flood loss in the City. The dataset provides information on structures that have had multiple NFIP claims across the history of the program. According to the dataset, there are no repetitive loss or severe repetitive loss properties in the City of Cotati.
4.7.2 Flood Vulnerability Summary
Table 4-13 provides a summary of flood vulnerability in Cotati.
Table 4-13. Flood Vulnerability Summary
NFIP Topic Comments
Describe areas prone to flooding in your jurisdiction. Areas along the Laguna De Santa Rosa, with the most flood prone areas
at East Cotati Avenue and on the west
side of US 101.
Do you maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding? No Do you maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation? No How many homeowners and/or business owners are interested in mitigation (elevation or acquisition)?
Not Applicable
Are any RiskMAP projects currently underway in your jurisdiction? If so, state what projects are underway.
No
How do you make Substantial Damage determinations? Follow California Intergovernmental Risk Authority (CIRA) guidance
How many Substantial Damage determinations were declared for recent flood events in your jurisdiction?
Zero
How many properties have been mitigated (elevation or acquisition) in your jurisdiction?
If there are mitigation properties, how were the projects funded? Unknown
Do your flood hazard maps adequately address the flood risk within your jurisdiction?
If not, state why.
Yes
4.8 GROWTH/DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
Understanding how past, current, and projected development patterns have or are likely to increase or decrease risk in hazard areas is a key component to appreciating a jurisdiction’s overall risk to its hazards of concern. Recent and expected future development trends, including major Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-21
residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development, are summarized in Table 4-14 through Table 4-16.
Table 4-14. Number of Building Permits for New Construction Issued Since the Previous HMP Year and Permit Issued Single Family Multi-Family
Other
(commercial,
mixed-use, etc.) Total
2020 New Construction Permits Issued 242 24 44 310
2020 Permits Issued within SFHA 21 6 1 28
2021 New Construction Permits Issued 30 0 2 32
2021 Permits Issued within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2022 New Construction Permits Issued 0 0 0 0
2022 Permits Issued within SFHA 0 0 1 1
2023 New Construction Permits Issued 0 0 1 1
2023 Permits Issued within SFHA 0 0 1 1
2024 New Construction Permits Issued 1 2 0 3
2024 Permits Issued within SFHA 0 0 0 0
Note: SFHA = Special Flood Hazard Area
Table 4-15. Recent Major Development and Infrastructure from 2020 to Present Property or
Development
Name
Type of
Development
# of Units /
Structures
Location (address
and/or block and
lot)
Known Hazard
Zonesa
Description / Status
of Development
Kessing Ranch Residential 44 SFDs Multiple — Completed Single Family Residential
Subdivision
Sandell
Warehouse 1
Commercial 1 380 Blodgett St/046-
073-006
Partially within a
100-year flood
zone
Completed PODS
warehouse facility
Sandell
Warehouse 2
Commercial 1 390 Blodgett St/046-
073-006
Partially within a
100-year flood
zone
Completed PODS
warehouse facility
Jamie Lane Residential 5 SFDs Multiple — Completed Single Family Dwellings
Note: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) were not included in the issued permit totals. a. Only location-specific hazard zones or vulnerabilities identified.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-22
Table 4-16. Known or Anticipated Major Development and Infrastructure in the Next Five Years Property or
Development
Name
Type of
Developme
nt
# of Units /
Structures
Location (address
and/or block and lot)
Known
Hazard
Zones
Description /
Status of
Development
Cotati Village 1 Mixed Use 177 units, 6
buildings
7515 Alder Ave,
8145 Gravenstein Hwy
144-040-011, 144-040-
021
— Entitlements
Approved
Cotati Village 2 Mixed Use 126 units 7515 Alder Ave,
8145 Gravenstein Hwy
144-040-011, 144-040-
021
— Entitlements
Approved
Cotati Hotel Commercial 153 rooms 146 St Joseph Wy
144-170-005
144-170-003
144-170-010
— Construction
started
Flahaven
Estates
Residential 35 SFDs 8841 Old Redwood Hwy
046-223-018
— Entitlements
Approved
902 E Cotati
Cottages
Residential 4 primary units
and 2 ADUs, 2
buildings
902 E Cotati Ave
144-302-030
— Under construction
Cotati Station Residential 98 units 8354 & 8360 Santero Way
144-320-035; 144-320-
034; 144-320-036
— Entitlements
Approved
La Plaza View
Mixed Use
Project
Mixed Use 35 apartment
units, 10,000 sq ft
of commercial
space
100 E Cotati Ave
144-274-015; 144-275-
014
— Project in design
Lasker Lane
Subdivision
Residential 12 SFDs, 12
ADUs
65 Lasker Ln
144-470-007
— Under review
Redwood Row Residential 170 apartment
units, 14
shopkeeper
spaces
286-019, 046-286-018,
046-286-017, 046-286-
020
— Entitlements
Approved
Note: Any potential developments not listed in the above table can be found here:
https://www.cotaticity.gov/228/projects-in-progress
As noted above, 30 building permits were issued in SFHAs since the previous HMP was adopted and major development is not scheduled to occur in any known hazard areas over the next five years. The percentage of all buildings in the City that are within the 0.2-percent annual chance floodplain (17.5 percent) has not changed since the previous plan, so the overall vulnerability is considered to have stayed the same.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-23
4.9 JURISDICTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The hazard profiles in Volume I provide detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards, including summaries of Cotati’s risk assessment results and data used to determine the hazard ranking. Key local risk assessment information is presented below.
4.9.1 Hazard Area
Maps of probable hazard areas within the City are shown in Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-4. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps are provided only for hazards that can be identified clearly using mapping techniques and technologies and for which Cotati has significant exposure.
Figure 4-3. Flood, Dam Inundation, Tsunami, and Sea Level Rise Hazard Area Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-24
Figure 4-4. Wildfire Severity Zone, NEHRP Soils, and Landslide Hazard Area
4.9.2 Hazard Event History
The history of natural and non-natural hazard events in Cotati is detailed in Volume I, where each hazard profile includes a chronology of historical events that have affected the County and its municipalities. Table 4-17 provides details on loss and damage in Cotati during hazard events since the last hazard mitigation plan update.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-25
Table 4-17. Hazard Event History in Cotati, 2021-2025
Dates of
Event
Event
Type
Disaster
Declaration Summary of Event
Summary of
Damage and Losses
in Cotati
January 26-
29, 2021
Flood
and
Debris
Flow
N/A A plume of moisture from the tropical Pacific brought an atmospheric river to the Bay Area, roadway flooding at US101 N and E Washington St on ramp, and a mudslide on SR1 and Fort Ross Rd.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
March 10,
2021
Hail N/A A cold upper low moved through the region in early March bringing widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms to the Greater Bay Area. The Santa Rosa Fire Department
reported multiple vehicle accidents on US-101 due to
accumulating small hail.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
November
8, 2021
Flood N/A A weak to moderate atmospheric river event impacted the SF Bay Area, bringing moderate to locally heavy rain and gusty winds. Heavy rain caused roadway flooding.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
December
13, 2021
Flood N/A A low pressure system from the Gulf of Alaska tapped into sub-tropical moisture from the Central Pacific to drop heavy rain throughout the state.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
January 9,
2023
Flood DR-4683-CA
EM-3591-CA
CA23-1
A strong atmospheric river led to widespread flooding across the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
March 9,
2023
Flood DR-4699-CA
EM-3592-CA
CA23-3
Sub-tropical moisture plume from over the Central Pacific moved into the California Coast. CHP reported a mud slide moving debris on California Highway 116.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
January 21-
22, 2024
Flood N/A Widespread rainfall and nuisance flooding occurred across the Bay Area. Westbound California Route 116 at Travis
Road was flooded across all lanes. A vehicle was stuck in floodwaters on Eastside Road north of Mark West Station Road. A mudslide was reported on California Highway 1 near Estero Lane. The Shiloh Road and Arata Lane offramps from US Highway 101 northbound were closed due to standing
water. Flooding was reported in northern Guerneville. Heavy rain caused flooding from Fife Creek at Sycamore Court
Mobile Home Park; 3 inches of water flooded a trailer.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
January 31,
2024
Flood N/A A cold front brought widespread rain and high winds through California.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
February 4,
2024
Flood N/A Two cold fronts caused minor nuisance flooding gusty winds, and widespread rain. Roadway flooding was reported at
California Route 1 and Kruse Ranch Road; a vehicle was
stuck in mud on the right hand side of the road. Standing water was reported halfway across Occidental Road in two spots between Mill Street and California Highway 116.
Approximately 3 inches of water rushed across Calistoga Road near Alpine Road. Roadway flooding was reported at Arnold Drive and Boyes Blvd. Water flooded the roadway at northbound Olivet Road at Piner Road. Roadway flooding
was reported at eastbound Highway 116 and Bloomfield
Road. A landslide blocked eastbound lanes of Mark West
Springs Road. A vehicle was stuck in a flooded roadway on Valley Ford Road. Route 12 was closed due to flooding from Fremont Drive to Watmaugh Road. A creek flowed over Mark West Station Road. Mud, dirt, and rock blocked Los Alamos Road.
No significant
closures, damage or
losses.
EM = Emergency Declaration (FEMA); DR = Major Disaster Declaration (FEMA); N/A = Not applicable Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-26
4.9.3 Hazard Ranking and Vulnerabilities
The hazard profiles in Volume I have detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. The following presents key risk assessment results for Cotati.
Hazard Ranking
The participating jurisdictions have differing degrees of vulnerability to the hazards of concern, so each jurisdiction ranked its own degree of risk to each hazard. The community-specific hazard ranking is based on problems and impacts identified by the risk assessment presented in Volume I. The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard; the potential impacts of the hazard on people, property, and the economy; community capabilities to address the hazard; and changing future climate conditions.
The City of Cotati reviewed the preliminary hazard ranking calculated as described in Volume I to assess the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community. The revised rankings account for the changes in community priorities described in Section 4.5 of this annex and in Volume I of this HMP.
Table 4-18 shows the City of Cotati’s final hazard rankings for the identified planning area hazards of concern. Hazards ranked as “No exposure” are not considered to be hazards of local concern and are excluded from the vulnerability assessment, potential impacts assessment, and mitigation strategy.
Mitigation actions outlined below address all hazards of local concern, targeting high and medium hazards especially.
Table 4-18. Hazard Ranking
Hazard Rank
Dam Failure No exposure to this hazard
Drought Medium
Earthquake High
Extreme Cold Low
Extreme Heat Medium
Extreme Wind Low
Flood Medium
Landslide Low
Sea Level Rise No exposure to this hazard
Tsunami No exposure to this hazard
Wildfire Medium
Note: The scale is based on the hazard rankings established in Volume I, modified as appropriate based on review by the jurisdiction.
The dam failure inundation area for high and very high hazard dams does not occur within the City’s boundaries; therefore, there is no exposure to the dam failure hazard. Because the city is inland, tsunamis and sea level rise are not expected to have an impact on the people, buildings, or critical facilities in the city.
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The City updated the hazard rankings for extreme cold, extreme wind, flood, and wildfire based on the following considerations of local conditions:
• Extreme Cold and Extreme Wind: These hazards are generally infrequent and low in severity due to the City’s coastal California location. A low ranking is appropriate to reflect the limited risk posed by these events.
• Flooding: While the City does not experience widespread flooding, certain areas are subject to localized flood events, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. A medium ranking better represents the potential impacts and supports appropriate mitigation efforts. • Wildfire: According to the latest State LRA maps, some isolated portions of the City are designated as “moderate” Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ). However, the majority of the City is not identified as having elevated wildfire risk (See Figure 4-4).
Vulnerability to Hazards of Local Concern
Based on the above jurisdiction-specific information, this section describes vulnerability of community assets to the hazards of local concern to the City of Cotati.
Table 4-19 summarizes the percentage of the jurisdiction’s general buildings and community lifelines located in the mapped hazard areas for the hazards of local concern. Table 4-20 shows the percentage of the jurisdiction’s total population and socially vulnerable populations in each of these hazard areas.
Additional details on these results are provided in the hazard profiles in Volume I.
Table 4-19. Vulnerability of Community Assets to Mapped Hazards of Local Concern Mapped Hazard Areaa
Number of
Buildings
Value of
Buildings
Community
Lifelines
Dam Failure High and Extremely High Inundation Area 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% NEHRP D & E Soils 31.8% 42.5% 26.3%
1% Annual Chance Floodplain 6.7% 6.0% 5.3%
0.2% Annual Chance Floodplain 17.5% 16.5% 10.5%
Geologic Hazard Area 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Moderate Landslide Susceptibility Area 17.1% 13.5% 5.3% High Landslide Susceptibility Area 3.4% 2.7% 0.0%
Very High Landslide Susceptibility Area 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Sea Level Rise 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Tsunami 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zone 11.0% 9.8% 10.5%
High Fire Hazard Severity Zone 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
a. See the hazard profiles in Volume I for definitions of each mapped hazard area.
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Table 4-20. Populations Living in Mapped Hazard Areas
Mapped Hazard Areaa
Total
Population
People
Under 5
People
Over 65
NonEnglish
Speakers
People
With
Disabilities
People
Living in
Poverty
Single
Parent
Household
No
Vehicle
Access
Dam Failure High and
Extremely High Inundation
Area
0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
NEHRP D & E Soils 32.3% 32.1% 32.3% 31.5% 32.2% 32.2% 32.0% 0.0% 1% Annual Chance
Floodplain
7.8% 7.7% 7.8% 7.7% 7.7% 7.7% 7.5% 0.0%
0.2% Annual Chance
Floodplain
18.7% 18.7% 18.7% 18.5% 18.6% 18.7% 18.4% 0.0%
Geologic Hazard Area 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Moderate Landslide
Susceptibility Area
15.6% 15.4% 15.5% 15.4% 15.5% 15.5% 15.4% 0.0%
High Landslide
Susceptibility Area
3.3% 3.2% 3.2% 3.1% 3.2% 3.2% 3.1% 0.0%
Very High Landslide
Susceptibility Area
0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Sea Level Rise 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Tsunami 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Moderate Fire Hazard
Severity Zone
6.6% 6.5% 6.5% 6.2% 6.6% 6.5% 6.6% 0.0%
High Fire Hazard Severity
Zone
0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone
0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
a. See the hazard profiles in Volume I for definitions of each mapped hazard area.
Drought is unlikely to cause physical changes to buildings, facilities, or infrastructure. However, certain community lifelines are susceptible to impact if water is unavailable, such as water systems. Four city water wells are identified as critical facilities vulnerable to drought. In addition, the total population of the City (7,533 people) could be impacted by a drought if water rationing is implemented. In particular, the 1,122 adults over age 65 are vulnerable to dehydration in drought conditions.
Buildings located on National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) Class D and E soils are more likely to be damaged during an earthquake. Almost one-third of the buildings in Cotati (31.8 percent) are located on NEHRP Class D and E soils. In addition, 10 community lifeline facilities are located on Class D and E soils. This includes a bank, daycares, a local bridge, the Cotati Train Station, a sewer lift station, a state bridge, a veterinary office, and water wells. 32.3 percent of the city’s population lives on Class D and E soils, including 362 adults over age 65.
Extreme heat is unlikely to cause physical damage to buildings, facilities, or infrastructure. The city has four municipal water wells that are community lifelines. During an extreme heat event, the evaporation of water inside the wells could increase. Individuals who do not have access to air conditioning are vulnerable to health complications during extreme heat episodes. In particular, the 1,122 adults above Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-29
age 65 and 600 individuals living below the poverty line could be at risk for heat stroke, especially those who fall into both categories.
Extreme cold is unlikely to cause physical damage to buildings and facilities, although it has the potential to freeze and burst building infrastructure that contains liquids or gasses. Extreme cold also presents a risk to populations that do not have access to heating, such as the 31 persons experiencing homelessness.
Extreme wind may cause superficial damage to buildings, especially when the wind triggers falling trees or branches that land on roofs, windows, or doors. In addition, the 821 people with disabilities or the 1,122 adults over age 65 may experience difficulty walking through strong gusts of wind.
The City has moderate exposure to flooding, with 232 buildings in the 1-percent annual chance floodplain and 604 buildings in the 0.2-percent annual chance floodplain. There are two critical bridges in the 1-percent annual chance floodplain and two veterinary offices in the 0.2-percent chance annual floodplain. 586 people live in the 1-percent annual chance floodplain, including 63 people living with a disability, and 1,410 people live in the 0.2-percent annual chance floodplain, including 153 people living with a disability. Error! Reference source not found.Table 4-21 identifies critical facilities in the community located in the 1 percent and 0.2 percent annual chance floodplains.
Table 4-21. Critical Facilities Flood Vulnerability
Name Type 1% Annual
Chance Event
0.2% Annual
Chance Event
LAGUNA DE SANTA ROSA State Highway Bridge X X
LAGUNA DE SANTA ROSA Local Bridge X X
COOK WILLIAM & COOK LYNNE Veterinary - X
CEBO Veterinary - X
Source: County of Sonoma; California Energy Commission; Caltrans; HIFLD; USACE NID The City has low exposure to landslide hazards, with 590 buildings in the moderate landslide susceptibility hazard area and 116 buildings in the high landslide susceptibility hazard area. There is one critical facility in the moderate landslide susceptibility hazard area (Thomas Page Academy). There are 1,173 people living in the moderate landslide susceptibility hazard area and 246 people living in the high landslide susceptibility hazard area.
The City has moderate exposure to wildfires, with 380 buildings in the moderate fire hazard severity zone. There are three critical facilities in the moderate fire hazard severity zone (Thomas Page Academy and two veterinary offices). There are 496 people living in the moderate fire hazard severity zone, including 54 people living with a disability.
Potential Impacts from Hazards of Local Concern
Table 4-22 summarizes available quantitative estimates of potential impacts on community assets for the dam failure, flood, and earthquake hazards. In the event of a 500-year earthquake, as many as 146 Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-30
households could be displaced, 69 people may require shelter, 7.9 percent of the buildings in the City could be damaged, and 50,031 tons of debris could be generated. In the event of a 2,500-year earthquake, as many as 489 households could be displaced, 232 people may require shelter, 7.9 percent of the buildings in the City could be damaged, and 134,287 tons of debris could be generated.
In the event of a one-percent annual chance flood, as many as 309 people could be displaced, 127 people may require shelter, less than 0.1 percent of the buildings in the City could be damaged, and 42 tons of debris could be generated.
Table 4-22. Hazus-Determined Impacts for Hazards of Local Concern Impact Dam Failure
500-Year
Earthquake
Probabilistic
Event
2,500-Year
Earthquake
Probabilistic
Event
1% Annual
Flood
Chance
Event
Displaced Population 0 people 146 households 489 households 309 people Population Requiring Shelter 0 people 69 people 232 people 127 people General Building Damage as % of RCV 0.0% 7.9% 7.9% <0.1%% Total Debris Generated (tons) 0 50,031 134,287 42
Note: RCV = Replacement Cost Value
For all other hazards of local concern, the potential impacts were qualitatively evaluated. Table 4-23 summarizes additional risks specific to the City. The qualitative assessments in the hazard profiles in Volume I are equally applicable to the City.
Table 4-23. Qualitative Assessment of Impacts for Hazards of Local Concern Hazard Qualitative Local Impacts
Drought The City is vulnerable to drought conditions that may reduce water availability and impact local agriculture and landscaping.
Earthquake Located within an active seismic region, Cotati is at risk of experiencing earthquakes that could cause disruption to services and structural damage, specifically to buildings constructed prior to current building standards.
Extreme Cold Extreme cold events are rare and typically have a minimal impact on Cotati’s population and infrastructure.
Extreme Heat Heat waves occur periodically, posing health risks to residents, especially vulnerable groups, and increasing demand on energy and water systems.
Extreme Wind The City may experience occasional strong winds that can lead to property damage, power outages, and hazardous conditions.
Flood Flooding is a concern due to the City’s proximity to waterways and the potential for heavy rainfall, which can affect homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
Landslide Certain areas with sloped terrain may be susceptible to landslides, particularly during heavy rains or seismic events, but no specific landslide hazards have been noted.
Wildfire Wildfire poses a significant threat to Cotati due to surrounding vegetation and climatic conditions, which can endanger lives, property, and air quality.
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4.9.4 Identified Issues
After review of hazard event history, hazard rankings, hazard location, and current capabilities, the City of Cotati, through its Public Works/Engineering and Community Development departments, identified the following risk-related issues for the community:
• City water infrastructure is vulnerable to multiple natural hazards, including earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These hazards pose a significant risk of damage to water wells and sewer lift stations, which are critical for maintaining public health and safety. • The City water supply system is vulnerable to hazards such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These events could disrupt the City’s ability to provide a continuous and safe water supply during emergencies, posing a significant risk to public health and safety. • The City sewer system infrastructure is vulnerable to hazards such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These events can compromise the integrity of the sewer system, leading to service disruptions, environmental contamination, and public health risks. • The City faces challenges related to aging water infrastructure, which compromises the reliability and safety of the community’s water supply—especially during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without proactive investment, the aging system may fail to meet future demand or withstand natural disasters. • The City water infrastructure is vulnerable to the loss of power at well sites during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Power outages can disrupt water supply operations, jeopardizing public health and safety, especially during emergencies when water access is most critical.
• The City of Cotati sewer lift station infrastructure is vulernable to the risk of power loss during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without backup power, these stations may fail, leading to sewage overflows, environmental contamination, and public health risks.
• The City’s critical facilities, such as emergency operations centers, fire stations, and public safety buildings, are vulnerable to the risk of power loss during hazard events including earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without reliable backup power, these facilities may be unable to operate during emergencies, compromising public safety and emergency response capabilities.
• The City recognizes the importance of regional coordination in addressing a wide range of hazards, including drought, earthquake, extreme temperatures, wind, flood, landslide, and wildfire. These hazards do not respect jurisdictional boundaries, and effective mitigation requires a unified, countywide approach.
• The City faces a significant risk of infrastructure failure or damage due to hazards such as earthquakes, flooding, landslides, and wildfires. These events can severely disrupt transportation routes, utilities, and communication systems, making timely and organized evacuation difficult.
Without a coordinated evacuation strategy, residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, may face confusion, delays, and increased risk of injury or harm during emergencies.
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• The City faces increasing risk of water supply shortages due to hazards such as drought, earthquake, flooding, landslides, and wildfire. These events can disrupt water sourcing and distribution, threatening the availability of safe and reliable drinking water for residents, businesses, and critical facilities.
• The City is experiencing low water pressure and flow, particularly during emergencies such as drought, earthquakes, flooding, landslides, and wildfires. This deficiency poses a serious risk to public safety, as it limits the City’s ability to provide adequate water for firefighting and emergency response, especially in high-risk areas.
• During hazard events such as earthquakes, wildfires, or extreme weather, power outages can disrupt traffic signal operations, leading to unsafe intersections and impaired emergency response. This poses a significant risk to public safety and mobility, especially for vulnerable populations and during evacuations.
• The City experiences recurring flooding in the Laguna de Santa Rosa and East Cotati Avenue areas, leading to water loss, infrastructure damage, and disruption of transportation and emergency services. The existing storm drain system is insufficient to manage high-intensity rainfall events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. • Flooding poses a recurring threat to the City of Cotati, endangering property, infrastructure, and public safety. Without access to affordable flood insurance and mitigation incentives, residents and businesses face increased financial vulnerability. Continued participation in the NFIP ensures community eligibility for flood insurance and supports floodplain management efforts. • Inconsistent or uncoordinated planning between the General Plan’s Safety Element and the HMP can lead to gaps in hazard mitigation, regulatory conflicts, and missed opportunities for funding and resilience-building. Ensuring alignment between these plans is essential for legal compliance, operational efficiency, and effective risk reduction.
• The City faces increasing risks of water supply shortages due to prolonged droughts, earthquakes, and wildfire-related infrastructure damage. These hazards threaten the City’s ability to provide reliable water for residents, businesses, and emergency services.
4.10 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses the status of mitigation actions from the previous HMP, describes proposed hazard mitigation actions, and prioritizes actions to address over the next five years.
4.10.1 Past Mitigation Action Status
Table 4-24 indicates progress on the City’s mitigation strategy identified in the 2021 HMP. Actions that are still recommended but not completed or that are in progress are carried forward and combined with new actions as part of the mitigation strategy for this plan update. Previous actions that are now ongoing programs and capabilities are indicated as such and are presented in the capability assessment earlier in this annex.
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Table 4-24. Status of 2021 Mitigation Actions for Cotati Mitigation Actions Status
Project Number COT-1
Hazards Addressed Earthquake, severe weather
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Implement water system emergency monitoring and leak detection (includes water quality monitoring and zone isolation) Status In progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Partially implemented. Leak detection complete.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-2
Hazards Addressed Earthquake, severe weather
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Collaborate with Sonoma Water on building an emergency interconnect and loop main (Cotati tanks direct interconnect, looping main to Madrone Road)
Status No Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Not Started
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-3
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Collaborate with the City of Rohnert Park to build a CotatiRohnert Park water system emergency interconnect Status No Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Not Started
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
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Mitigation Actions Status
Project Number COT-4
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Collaborate with the City of Rohnert Park to build a CotatiRohnert Park sewer system emergency interconnect Status Partially Implemented.
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Received utility maps from Rohnert Park to facilitate temporary emergency interconnection.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-5
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund and build well sites/tank intrusion monitoring Status Not Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Not budgeted. Considered for FY 26-27
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-6
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund and build well site emergency power interconnects (adding generator hook ups to all well sites)
Status In progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Started placing hookups at all well sites.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
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Mitigation Actions Status
Project Number COT-7
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund a Redwood Drive and Myrtle Sewer lift station emergency back-up power source
Status No Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Unsuccessful grant applications. Budgeted for FY 25-26
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-07 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-8
Hazards Addressed Earthquake, Severe Weather, Wildfire
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund critical facilities emergency stationary back-up power system and back-up power project
Status In Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Consultant selected to evaluate power options. The study is budgeted for FY 25-26
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-08 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-9
Hazards Addressed Earthquake, wildfire, severe weather, flood, landslide, dam failure, drought, sea level rise, tsunami
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Support ongoing hazard mitigation efforts in the county.
Status Ongoing, In progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
-
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-10
Hazards Addressed Earthquake, wildfire
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund and implement evacuation coordination project Status In progress
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Mitigation Actions Status
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Police zones established as evacuation zones.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-10 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-11
Hazards Addressed Earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Develop an infrastructure asset management system for inspection/rapid repair
Status In Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Partially complete. NexGen software being used.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-01 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-12
Hazards Addressed Wildfire, earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund emergency water storage and supply projects Status Ongoing
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Approved rate increases for the next 5 years
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-11 and 2026-Cotati-17 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-13
Hazards Addressed Wildfire, earthquake
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund fire flow booster pump system Status Ongoing
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Approved rate increases for the next 5 years
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-11 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
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Mitigation Actions Status
Project Number COT-14
Hazards Addressed Wildfire
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund water main fire flow projects Status Ongoing
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Proposed rate increases for the next 5 years
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-12 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-15
Hazards Addressed Wildfire, severe weather, flood, earthquake Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Purchase a back-up power source for traffic signal solar red flasher to assist with community movement in the event of power loss
Status Ongoing
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Battery installed on some signals. Others to be budgeted.
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-13 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-16
Hazards Addressed Flood, severe weather
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Fund a Laguna de Santa Rosa/East Cotati Avenue storm drain flood improvement project
Status In Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Zone 1A responsibility
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-14 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
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Mitigation Actions Status
Project Number COT-17
Hazards Addressed Flood, severe weather
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Maintain participation in NFIP Status No Progress
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Not aware of anyone in the program
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate See Action Worksheet 2026-Cotati-15 If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
Project Number COT-18
Hazards Addressed All hazards
Lead Agency City of Cotati
Mitigation Action Description Ensure compliance, adoption and coordination between General Plan’s Safety Element and HMP
Status Ongoing
Narrative describing progress or
obstacles that have prevented
implementation
Achieved through annual general plan update report
Include in the 2026 HMP or Discontinue? Include
If include, revise/reword as appropriate No Change
If discontinue, explain why Not Applicable
4.10.2 Additional Mitigation Efforts
In addition to the mitigation actions listed as completed in Table 4-24, Cotati has made significant mitigation progress in the following areas since the adoption of the previous HMP:
• Tree trimming/thinning
• Weed abatement in public right of way
• Rancho Adobe fire mitigation
• Weed abatement on private properties
4.10.3 Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the HMP Update Cotati participated in the mitigation strategy workshop for this HMP to identify appropriate actions to include in a local hazard mitigation strategy. Its comprehensive consideration of all possible activities to address hazards of concern included review of the following FEMA documents:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-39
• FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program and Policy Guide (July 2024) The action worksheets included at the end of this annex list the mitigation actions that Cotati would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. The actions are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and changes in City priorities.
Table 4-25 indicates how the proposed mitigation actions fall within the four FEMA mitigation action categories and six CRS mitigation action categories (these categories are described in Appendix D).
Table 4-25. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category Hazard LPR SIP NSP EAP PR PP PI NR SP ES
Dam Failure
Drought X X X X X X X
Earthquake X X X X X X X
Extreme Cold X X X X X X
Extreme Heat X X X X X X
Extreme Wind X X X X X X X
Flooding X X X X X X X X X
Landslide X X X X X X X
Sea Level Rise
Tsunami
Wildfire X X X X X X X
Note: Mitigation category codes as follows (see Appendix D for descriptions ): LPR = Local Plans and Regulations; SIP = Structure and Infrastructure Project; NSP = Natural Systems Protection; EAP = Education and Awareness Programs; PR = Preventative Measures; PP = Property Protection; PI = Public Information; NR = Natural Resource Protection; SP = Structural Flood Control Projects; ES = Emergency Services Volume I identifies evaluation criteria for prioritizing the mitigation actions. To assist with rating each mitigation action as high, medium, or low priority, a numeric rank is assigned for each of the evaluation criteria. Table 4-26 provides a summary of the prioritization of all proposed mitigation actions for the HMP update.
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-40
Table 4-26. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
Project Name Cost Benefit Objectives
Time
Frame Score Priority
Installation of Well Sites Low High 3 1-5 years 8.231 High Emergency Power Interconnects Low Medium 3 1-5 years 7.231 High Backup Power Medium High 3 1-5 years 7.231 High
Critical Facilities - Backup Power High High 4 1-5 years 6.308 Medium Madrone Road Interconnection High High 4 1-5 years 6.308 Medium Cotati / Rohnert Park Interconnection (Water) High High 4 1-5 years 6.308 Medium Cotati / Rohnert Park Interconnection (Sewer) High High 4 1-5 years 6.308 Medium Water Wells and Sewer Lift Stations High High 4 1-5 years 6.308 Medium Hazard Mitigation Support Low Low 12 1-10 years 5.924 Medium Storm Drain Flood Improvement High High 11 1-10 years 5.847 Medium NFIP Program Low Low 11 1-10 years 5.847 Medium
General Plan Safety Element Low Low 11 1-10 years 5.847 Medium Emergency Water and Supply System High High 6 1-10 years 5.462 Medium Water Main Fire Flow High High 6 1-10 years 5.462 Medium Water Storage and Supply High High 6 1-10 years 5.462 Medium Emergency Power - Traffic Safety Signal Medium Medium 5 1-10 years 5.385 Medium Evacuation Coordination Medium Medium 4 1-10 years 5.308 Medium Note: Volume I conveys guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions. Low (0-5), Medium (5-7), High (7-9).
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-41
Action 2026-Cotati-01. Water Wells and Sewer Lift Stations Lead Agency: Public Works and Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazards of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified vulnerabilities in its water infrastructure due to multiple natural hazards, including earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These hazards pose a significant risk of damage to water wells and sewer lift stations, which are critical for maintaining public health and safety.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes implementing a water system emergency monitoring and leak detection system. This infrastructure project will enhance the City's ability to detect and respond to system failures in real time, reducing service disruptions and ensuring the continued delivery of safe drinking water.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: Ability to supply safe drinking water
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhanced public health protection
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning, ensuring that future development is served by a reliable water system.
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Protects essential water and wastewater infrastructure, which are lifelines for hospitals, emergency services, and residential areas.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s operational capacity to monitor, maintain, and respond to infrastructure issues during and after hazard events Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased risk of drought and extreme weather events by improving system efficiency and reducing water loss.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority High
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-42
Action 2026-Cotati-02. Madrone Road Interconnection
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works and Engineering Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazards of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a critical vulnerability in its water supply system due to hazards such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These events could disrupt the City’s ability to provide a continuous and safe water supply during emergencies, posing a significant risk to public health and safety.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to collaborate with Sonoma Water to construct an emergency interconnect and loop main, specifically, a direct interconnect from the Cotati Tanks to Madrone Road. This infrastructure will allow for temporary water supply continuity during emergencies and improve system redundancy.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, grant funding Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: This action will ensure continuous water supply as needed for a temporary duration during emergencies. Partnerships between water systems can enhance public health protection by sharing equipment and treatment chemicals.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhanced public health protection
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning, ensuring new development is served by a more robust water system.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Strengthens water supply to critical facilities such as hospitals, emergency shelters, and fire services.
Impact on Capabilities: Increases the City’s operational flexibility and emergency response capacity.
Climate Change Considerations: Enhances resilience to climate-driven hazards such as drought, wildfire, and extreme weather events.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority High
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-43
Action 2026-Cotati-03. Cotati-Rohnert Park Water System Emergency Interconnect (Water)
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works and Engineering Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a critical vulnerability in its water supply system due to hazards such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These hazards could disrupt the City’s ability to maintain a continuous and safe water supply during emergencies, posing a significant risk to public health, safety, and critical services.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to collaborate with the City of Rohnert Park to construct a Cotati–Rohnert Park Water System Emergency Interconnect. This infrastructure project would allow for temporary water supply sharing between the two cities during emergencies, enhancing system redundancy and regional resilience.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: This action will ensure continuous water supply as needed for a temporary duration during emergencies. Partnerships between water systems can enhance public health protection by sharing equipment and treatment chemicals.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhanced public health protection
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning, ensuring future developments are served by a more robust and interconnected water system.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Strengthens water supply reliability for hospitals, emergency shelters, fire stations, and other essential services.
Impact on Capabilities: Enhances the City’s operational flexibility and emergency response capacity through inter-jurisdictional coordination.
Climate Change Considerations: Increases resilience to climate-related hazards, such as drought, wildfire, and extreme weather, by diversifying water supply options.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-44
Action 2026-Cotati-04. Cotati-Rohnert Park Sewer System Emergency Interconnect (Sewer)
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a significant vulnerability in its sewer system infrastructure due to hazards such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. These events can compromise the integrity of the sewer system, leading to service disruptions, environmental contamination, and public health risks.
Description of the Solution: To mitigate this risk, the City proposes to partner with the City of Rohnert Park to construct a Cotati–Rohnert Park Sewer System Emergency Interconnect.
This infrastructure project would allow for temporary sewer system support between the two cities during emergencies, ensuring continued wastewater service and reducing the risk of system failure.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: Emergency interconnects allow sewer systems to operate during emergencies when regular connections are compromised.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhanced public health protection
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning, ensuring new developments are served by a more robust and interconnected sewer system.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Maintains essential wastewater services for hospitals, emergency shelters, and other critical facilities.
Impact on Capabilities: Improves the City’s emergency response and operational flexibility through regional collaboration.
Climate Change Considerations: Enhances resilience to climate-related hazards, such as increased flooding and wildfire events, which can damage sewer infrastructure.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-45
Action 2026-Cotati-05. Installation of Well Sites
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati faces challenges related to aging water infrastructure, which compromises the reliability and safety of the community’s water supply— especially during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without proactive investment, the aging system may fail to meet future demand or withstand natural disasters.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and construct new well sites to modernize its water infrastructure. These wells will provide a more reliable and resilient source of clean drinking water, ensuring service continuity during emergencies and reducing dependence on aging components.
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 3,4,6
Benefits: Consistent clean water supply
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Provides clean and fresh drinking water
Impact on Future Development: Supports sustainable growth by ensuring adequate water infrastructure for new developments.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Strengthens water supply reliability for hospitals, emergency shelters, and essential services.
Impact on Capabilities: Improves the City’s capacity to manage and maintain a modern, hazardresilient water system.
Climate Change Considerations: Enhances resilience to drought and extreme weather events by diversifying and securing water sources.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-46
Action 2026-Cotati-06. Emergency Power Interconnects
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a vulnerability in its water infrastructure due to the loss of power at well sites during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Power outages can disrupt water supply operations, jeopardizing public health and safety, especially during emergencies when water access is most critical.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and install emergency power interconnects at all well sites, including generator hookups. This will ensure that well operations can continue during power outages, enhancing the City’s resilience and ability to maintain essential services.
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 3,4,6
Benefits: Builds power resilience and ensures wells continue to work during a power outage.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Provides clean and fresh drinking water during a power outage.
Impact on Future Development: Supports sustainable and resilient infrastructure for future growth.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Maintains water service to hospitals, emergency shelters, and fire services.
Impact on Capabilities: Increases the City’s operational readiness and ability to respond to multihazard events.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased risk of climate-driven power outages due to wildfire, heatwaves, and storms.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-47
Action 2026-Cotati-07. Backup Power
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a critical vulnerability in its sewer lift station infrastructure due to the risk of power loss during hazard events such as earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without backup power, these stations may fail, leading to sewage overflows, environmental contamination, and public health risks.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and install emergency backup power systems at the Redwood Drive and Myrtle Road sewer lift stations. This includes generator hookups or permanent backup generators to ensure continued operation during power outages.
Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: Water Enterprise, FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 3,4,6
Benefits: Builds power resilience and ensures sewer lift stations continue to work during a power outage.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhances public protection
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning for new developments.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Protects wastewater service to hospitals, emergency shelters, and other essential facilities.
Impact on Capabilities: Increases the City’s emergency response capacity and operational resilience.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased risk of climate-related power outages due to wildfire, storms, and extreme weather.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority High
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-48
Action 2026-Cotati-08. Critical Facilities – Backup Power Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati has identified a significant vulnerability in its critical facilities, such as emergency operations centers, fire stations, and public safety buildings, due to the risk of power loss during hazard events including earthquakes, extreme wind, flooding, and wildfire. Without reliable backup power, these facilities may be unable to operate during emergencies, compromising public safety and emergency response capabilities.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and install stationary emergency backup power systems at key critical facilities. These systems will ensure that essential services remain operational during power outages, enhancing the City’s resilience and ability to protect the community during disasters. The critical facilities are listed below:
• Cotati City Hall - 201 West Sierra Ave
• Cotati Police Dept - 203 West Sierra Ave
• Sewer Lift Station - Benson Lane, west of Laguna
• Sewer Lift Station - Eagle Dr between Lark Dr and Flamingo • Sewer Lift Station - Myrtle Ave between Keppel and Hahn • Sewer Lift Station - Redwood Dr, south of Copeland Creek • Water Well - 90 East Sierra Ave
• Water Well - 8562 Lakewood Ave
• Water Well - Northwest corner of Cotai near Houser St.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP
Implementation Timeline: Within 5 years
Objectives Met: 3,4,6
Benefits: Ensures reliability, safety, and continuity of emergency operations Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Provides consistent access to emergency services, especially for those with limited mobility or resources.
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning and ensures future developments are supported by reliable emergency services.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Protects the operational capacity of lifeline services, including emergency response, communications, and public health.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s emergency management capabilities and continuity of operations.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased risk of climate-related power outages due to wildfires, storms, and extreme heat events.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-49
Action 2026-Cotati-09. Hazard Mitigation Support
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Extreme Cold, Extreme Heat, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati recognizes the importance of regional coordination in addressing a wide range of hazards, including drought, earthquake, extreme temperatures, wind, flood, landslide, and wildfire. These hazards do not respect jurisdictional boundaries, and effective mitigation requires a unified, countywide approach.
Description of the Solution: To support this action, the City will actively participate in and contribute to ongoing hazard mitigation efforts led by Sonoma County. This includes attending planning meetings, sharing data, aligning local policies with regional strategies, and supporting implementation of multi-jurisdictional mitigation actions.
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff time
Implementation Timeline: On going
Objectives Met: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Benefits: Strengthens regional hazard mitigation capacity.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Improves equitable access to hazard mitigation resources and protections.
Impact on Future Development: Encourages coordinated land use planning that reduces exposure to hazards.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Supports regional infrastructure resilience, benefiting shared lifelines and services.
Impact on Capabilities: Builds institutional knowledge and interagency coordination, improving response and recovery capabilities.
Climate Change Considerations: Enhances the community’s ability to adapt to evolving climate risks through shared strategies, data, and resources.
Mitigation Category Local Plans and Regulations
CRS Category Preventative Measures, Emergency Services
Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-50
Action 2026-Cotati-10. Evacuation Coordination
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati faces a significant risk of infrastructure failure or damage due to hazards such as earthquakes, flooding, landslides, and wildfires.
These events can severely disrupt transportation routes, utilities, and communication systems, making timely and organized evacuation difficult.
Without a coordinated evacuation strategy, residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, may face confusion, delays, and increased risk of injury or harm during emergencies.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and implement a comprehensive evacuation coordination plan. This plan would include route planning, interagency coordination, communication protocols, and public outreach to ensure residents are informed and prepared to evacuate safely and efficiently during a disaster.
Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP, general fund
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 3,4,5,6
Benefits: Effective communication reducing panic and injuries, reduced chaos and confusion, better decision making in an emergency
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Enhances public protection by ensuring equitable access to evacuation resources and information.
Impact on Future Development: Encourages resilient land use planning by identifying and addressing evacuation challenges in new developments.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Ensures continued access to and from critical facilities, such as hospitals and emergency shelters, during disasters.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s emergency response infrastructure and interagency coordination.
Climate Change Considerations: Supports preparedness for climate exacerbated hazards, such as more frequent wildfires, intense storms, and flooding, which may increase the need for rapid evacuations.
Mitigation Category Local Plans and Regulations
CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-51
Action 2026-Cotati-11. Emergency Water and Supply System Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati faces increasing risk of water supply shortages due to hazards such as drought, earthquake, flooding, landslides, and wildfire.
These events can disrupt water sourcing and distribution, threatening the availability of safe and reliable drinking water for residents, businesses, and critical facilities.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and implement emergency water storage and supply projects. These may include the construction of new water storage tanks, reservoirs, or interconnects that enhance the City’s ability to maintain water availability during and after hazard events.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP, Water Enterprise
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,5,6,12
Benefits: Mitigating impact of drought and minimizing the risk of water shortages.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Ensures equitable access to safe drinking water during emergencies.
Impact on Future Development: Supports sustainable growth by ensuring adequate water infrastructure for new developments.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Maintains water supply for hospitals, emergency shelters, and fire suppression systems.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s operational readiness and emergency response capacity.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased risk of drought and extreme weather by improving long-term water storage and supply reliability.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-52
Action 2026-Cotati-12. Water Main Fire Flow
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati is experiencing low water pressure and flow, particularly during emergencies such as drought, earthquakes, flooding, landslides, and wildfires. This deficiency poses a serious risk to public safety, as it limits the City’s ability to provide adequate water for firefighting and emergency response, especially in high-risk areas.
Description of the Solution: The City proposes to fund and implement water main fire flow projects.
These projects will upgrade and expand water mains to ensure consistent and reliable water pressure and flow, particularly for fire suppression and emergency services.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP, Water Enterprise
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6,7,9
Benefits: Ensures reliable water pressure and flow during emergencies, safeguards lives and property.
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Provides equitable protection by ensuring all neighborhoods have access to adequate fire flow.
Impact on Future Development: Supports safe and sustainable growth by meeting fire flow requirements for new developments.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Maintains water supply for hospitals, emergency shelters, and fire stations.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s emergency response infrastructure.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased fire risk and water system strain due to climatedriven drought and extreme weather.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-53
Action 2026-Cotati-13. Emergency Power - Traffic Safety Signal Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Cold, Extreme Heat, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: During hazard events such as earthquakes, wildfires, or extreme weather, power outages can disrupt traffic signal operations, leading to unsafe intersections and impaired emergency response. This poses a significant risk to public safety and mobility, especially for vulnerable populations and during evacuations.
Description of the Solution: Purchase and install a backup power source for the Traffic Signal Solar Red Flasher system to ensure continued traffic control during power outages. This will support safe and efficient community movement during emergencies.
Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP, PDM, General Fund Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 3,4,5,6,10
Benefits: Safe traffic conditions, better overall visibility Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Improves safety and mobility for individuals with limited transportation options or mobility challenges during emergencies.
Impact on Future Development: Supports resilient infrastructure planning and ensures traffic safety systems are robust against future hazard events.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Improves access to and from critical facilities such as hospitals, fire stations, and emergency shelters during power outages.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the city’s emergency response and traffic management capabilities during multi-hazard events.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events and wildfires due to climate change, which can lead to more frequent power outages.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-54
Action 2026-Cotati-14. Storm Drain Flood Improvement
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Flood
Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati experiences recurring flooding in the Laguna de Santa Rosa and East Cotati Avenue areas, leading to water loss, infrastructure damage, and disruption of transportation and emergency services. The existing storm drain system is insufficient to manage high-intensity rainfall events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
Description of the Solution: Implement a comprehensive storm drain improvement project to enhance floodwater conveyance and storage capacity in the Laguna de Santa Rosa and East Cotati Avenue corridor. This will reduce flood risk, improve water retention for reuse, and minimize soil erosion.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA FMA, HMGP
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 1,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Benefits: Reduced flooding, water collection for other uses, less soil erosion Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Improves safety and resilience for low-income and underserved communities that are disproportionately affected by flooding.
Impact on Future Development: Supports sustainable growth by reducing flood risk in key development areas and ensuring infrastructure resilience.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Protects access to emergency routes, utilities, and public services by minimizing flood-related disruptions.
Impact on Capabilities: Enhances the City’s stormwater management and emergency response capabilities, while supporting long-term climate adaptation goals.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased flood risk due to more intense and frequent storm events linked to climate change. Promotes adaptive infrastructure that can handle future hydrologic variability.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Natural Resource Protection, Structural Flood Control Projects, Emergency Services
Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-55
Action 2026-Cotati-15. NFIP Program
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Flood
Description of the Problem: Flooding poses a recurring threat to the City of Cotati, endangering property, infrastructure, and public safety. Without access to affordable flood insurance and mitigation incentives, residents and businesses face increased financial vulnerability. Continued participation in the NFIP ensures community eligibility for flood insurance and supports floodplain management efforts.
Description of the Solution: Maintain active participation in the NFIP by enforcing floodplain management regulations, updating flood maps, and ensuring compliance with FEMA standards. This includes staff time for program administration, community outreach, and coordination with FEMA and State agencies.
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff Time
Implementation Timeline: Ongoing
Objectives Met: Flood insurance, reduce future flood damage, reduce financial risk Benefits: 1,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Provides affordable insurance options and financial protection for lowincome households and renters in flood-prone areas.
Impact on Future Development: Guides responsible development in floodplains, reducing long-term risk and ensuring compliance with floodplain regulations.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Helps protect critical infrastructure by enforcing development standards in flood-prone areas.
Impact on Capabilities: Strengthens the City’s floodplain management, planning, and emergency preparedness capabilities.
Climate Change Considerations: Supports long-term resilience to increased flood risk due to more intense and frequent storm events driven by climate change.
Mitigation Category Local Plans and Regulations, Education and Awareness Programs CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Public Information Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-56
Action 2026-Cotati-16. General Plan Safety Element
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Extreme Cold, Extreme Heat, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Inconsistent or uncoordinated planning between the General Plan’s Safety Element and the HMP can lead to gaps in hazard mitigation, regulatory conflicts, and missed opportunities for funding and resilience-building.
Ensuring alignment between these plans is essential for legal compliance, operational efficiency, and effective risk reduction.
Description of the Solution: Ensure ongoing compliance, adoption, and coordination between the General Plan’s Safety Element and the HMP through regular updates, interdepartmental collaboration, and integration of hazard mitigation strategies into land use and development policies.
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff Time
Implementation Timeline: Ongoing
Objectives Met: 1,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12
Benefits: Legal and financial risk mitigation, operational efficiency Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Improves equitable access to hazard mitigation benefits and ensures that vulnerable populations are considered in both planning documents.
Impact on Future Development: Guides responsible development by embedding hazard mitigation into land use planning and zoning decisions.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Ensures that critical infrastructure is considered and protected through coordinated planning and hazard assessments.
Impact on Capabilities: Builds institutional capacity for integrated planning, risk assessment, and long-term resilience.
Climate Change Considerations: Supports climate adaptation by aligning long-range planning documents with evolving hazard profiles and resilience goals.
Mitigation Category Local Plans and Regulations, Education and Awareness Programs CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Public Information Priority Medium
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Cotati 4-57
Action 2026-Cotati-17. Water Storage and Supply
Lead Agency: City of Cotati Public Works/Engineering
Supporting Agencies: Community Development
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Flood, Landslide, Wildfire Description of the Problem: The City of Cotati faces increasing risks of water supply shortages due to prolonged droughts, earthquakes, and wildfire-related infrastructure damage. These hazards threaten the City’s ability to provide reliable water for residents, businesses, and emergency services.
Description of the Solution: Fund and implement emergency water storage and supply projects, such as additional water tanks, reservoirs, or intertie systems, to ensure water availability during hazard events and prolonged drought conditions.
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP Grant funding, Water Enterprise Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,5,6,12
Benefits: Mitigating impact of drought and minimizing the risk of water shortages Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Ensures equitable access to water during emergencies, particularly for low-income and medically vulnerable populations.
Impact on Future Development: Supports sustainable growth by ensuring water infrastructure can meet future demand and withstand hazard impacts.
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Ensures continued water supply to hospitals, fire stations, and emergency shelters during disasters.
Impact on Capabilities: Improves the city’s ability to respond to and recover from water-related emergencies and infrastructure failures.
Climate Change Considerations: Addresses increased frequency and severity of droughts and wildfires due to climate change. Enhances adaptive capacity through resilient water infrastructure.
Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Emergency Services Priority Medium
APPENDIX A. PARTICIPATING JURISDICTION LETTERS OF INTENT
APPENDIX B. ACTION WORKSHEET TEMPLATE AND INSTRUCTIONS
Sonoma County | Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026 Update
New Action Development Worksheet
1 Genesee County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Complete this worksheet to update your mitigation strategy.
Return this worksheet to Tetra Tech Planner, Stacy Umbel, [email protected] by Friday, April 4, 2025. If your municipality needs more time, please provide the date you will return the worksheet to Tetra Tech.
Municipality:
Name/Title of Individual Completing Worksheet:
What are the hazards we need to address?
FEMA requires each participating jurisdiction include at least one mitigation action for each of the hazards of concern. For the Sonoma County 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan update, the hazards of concern are as follows:
Hazards of Concern
Dam Failure Extreme Heat Sea Level Rise
Drought Extreme Wind Tsunami
Earthquake Flood Wildfire
Extreme Cold Landslide
As you identify problems, consider a variety of action types that could be used to mitigate the problem including structural, plans and regulations, education and outreach, and natural systems protections. All actions will need to include detailed problems and solutions in order to meet FEMA’s expectations.
Examples
Problem Solution Hazard(s) Addressed
The Public Works facility, located at 123
Main Street, is identified as a critical facility
and lifeline for the jurisdiction. The facility
does not have a back-up generator to
maintain continuity of operations during an
emergency event.
The Public Works Superintendent will
work alongside the jurisdictional engineer
to identify the necessary capacity for an
emergency generator for the Public
Works facility. Once identified, Public
Works will have the emergency generator
installed at its facility at 123 Main Street.
Public Works will be responsible for
maintaining the emergency generator.
Severe Storm, Severe Winter
Storm, Utility Interruption
Officials in NFIP-participating communities
are responsible for regulating all
development in SFHAs by issuing permits
and enforcing local floodplain requirements,
including Substantial Damage, for the
repairs of damaged buildings. The
municipality does not have a Substantial
Damage Management Plan in place, nor do
they have a formal process in place when
conducting substantial damage
determinations.
The municipality will develop a
Substantial Damage Management Plan,
following the six-step planning process in
2021 Developing a Substantial Damage
Management Plan. This plan will outline
responsibilities for Substantial Damage
determinations, determining market
value, and permit approval processes
following a disaster event.
Flood, Severe Storm
Sonoma County | Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026 Update
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2 Genesee County Hazard Mitigation Plan
TYPES OF MITIGATION ACTIONS
A mitigation action is a specific action, project, activity, or process taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from hazards and their impacts. Implementing mitigation actions helps achieve the plan’s mission and goals. The actions to reduce vulnerability to threats and hazards form the core of the plan and are a key outcome of the planning process. The primary types of mitigation actions to reduce long-term vulnerability are:
Mitigation Type Description Examples
Local Plans and
Regulations
These actions include government authorities,
policies, or codes that influence the way land and
buildings are developed and built.
▪ Comprehensive plans
▪ Land use ordinances
▪ Subdivision regulations
▪ Development review
▪ Building codes and enforcement
▪ NFIP Community Rating System
▪ Capital improvement programs
▪ Open space preservation
▪ Stormwater management regulations
and master plans
Structure and
Infrastructure Projects
These actions involve modifying existing
structures and infrastructure to protect them from
a hazard or remove them from a hazard area.
This could apply to public or private structures as
well as critical facilities and infrastructure.
This type of action also involves projects to
construct manmade structures to reduce the
impact of hazards.
Many of these types of actions are projects
eligible for funding through the FEMA Hazard
Mitigation Assistance program.
▪ Acquisitions and elevations of
structures in flood prone areas
▪ Utility undergrounding
▪ Structural retrofits
▪ Floodwalls and retaining walls
▪ Detention and retention structures
▪ Culverts
▪ Safe rooms
Natural Systems
Protection
These are actions that minimize damage and
losses and also preserve or restore the functions
of natural systems.
▪ Sediment and erosion control
▪ Stream corridor restoration
▪ Forest management
▪ Conservation easements
▪ Wetland restoration and preservation
Education and
Awareness Programs
These are actions to inform and educate citizens,
elected officials, and property owners about
hazards and potential ways to mitigate them.
These actions may also include participation in
national programs, such as StormReady or
Firewise Communities. Although this type of
mitigation reduces risk less directly than
structural projects or regulation, it is an important
foundation. A greater understanding and
awareness of hazards and risk among local
officials, stakeholders, and the public is more
likely to lead to direct actions.
▪ Radio or television spots
▪ Websites with maps and information
▪ Real estate disclosure
▪ Presentations to school groups or
neighborhood organizations
▪ Mailings to residents in hazard-prone
areas
▪ StormReady
▪ Firewise Communities
Sonoma County | Hazard Mitigation Plan 2026 Update
New Action Development Worksheet
3 Genesee County Hazard Mitigation Plan
MITIGATION ACTION WORKSHEET
Lead Agency:
Supporting Agencies:
Hazards of Concern: ☐Dam Failure
☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Cold
☐Extreme Heat
☐Extreme Wind
☐Flood
☐Landslide
☐Sea Leve Rise
☐Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem:
Description of the Solution:
Estimated Cost:
Potential Funding Sources:
Implementation Timeline:
Objectives Met:
Benefits:
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:
Impact on Future Development:
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:
Impact on Capabilities:
Climate Change Considerations:
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
CRS Category ☐Preventative Measures (PR)
☐Property Protection (PP)
☐Public Information (PI)
☐Natural Resource Protection (NR)
☐Structural Flood Control Projects (SP)
☐Emergency Services (ES)
Priority
APPENDIX C. REPETITIVE LOSS DEFINITIONS
The following definitions of repetitive loss properties are use in the analysis of NFIP compliance for the County and municipal annexes included in this hazard mitigation plan:
• NFIP Definition of Repetitive Loss: The NFIP defines a repetitive loss property as any insurable building for which two or more claims of more than $1,000 were paid by the NFIP within any rolling 10-year period since 1978.
• FMA Definition of Repetitive Loss: FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program defines a repetitive loss property as any insurable building that has incurred flood-related damage on two occasions, in which the cost of the repair, on average, equaled or exceeded 25 percent of the market value of the structure at the time of each such flood event. • NFIP Definition of Severe Repetitive Loss: A residential property covered under an NFIP flood insurance policy and: (a) That has at least four NFIP claim payments over $5,000 each, and the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeds $20,000; or (b) For which at least two separate claims payments have been made with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the market value of the building. In both instances, at least two of the claims must be within 10 years of each other, and claims made within 10 days of each other will be counted as one claim.
• FMA Definition of Severe Repetitive Loss: An NFIP-Insured structure that has incurred floodrelated damage for which four or more separate claims payments have been made, with the amount of each claim (including building and contents payments) exceeding $5,000, and with the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeding $20,000; or for which at least two separate claims payments (building payments only) have been made under such coverage, with the cumulative amount of such claims exceeding the market value of the building.
APPENDIX D. MITIGATION ACTION CATEGORIES
Sonoma County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Mitigation Action Categories D-1
Tables in each of the jurisdictional annexes for this hazard mitigation plan indicate the range of action categories addressed by each jurisdiction’s set of proposed mitigation actions. Four FEMA mitigation action categories and six CRS mitigation action categories are listed in the tables to demonstrate the wide range of activities and mitigation measures selected. These categories are described as follows:
• FEMA Mitigation Action Categories
• Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)—These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built. • Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)—These actions involve modifying existing structures and infrastructure to protect them from a hazard or remove them from a hazard area. This could apply to public or private structures as well as critical facilities and infrastructure. This type of action also involves projects to construct structures to reduce the impact of hazards.
• Natural Systems Protection (NSP)—These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems. • Education and Awareness Programs (EAP)—These are actions to inform and educate residents and visitors, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. These actions may also include participation in national programs, such as StormReady and Firewise Communities
• CRS Mitigation Action Categories
• Preventative Measures (PR)—Government, administrative or regulatory actions, or processes that influence the way land and buildings are developed and built. Examples include planning and zoning, floodplain local laws, capital improvement programs, open space preservation, and storm water management regulations. • Property Protection (PP)—These actions include public activities to reduce hazard losses or actions that involve (1) modification of existing buildings or structures to protect them from a hazard or (2) removal of the structures from the hazard area. Examples include acquisition, elevation, relocation, structural retrofits, storm shutters, and shatter-resistant glass. • Public Information (PI)—Actions to inform and educate residents and visitors, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. Such actions include outreach projects, real estate disclosure, hazard information centers, and educational programs for school-age children and adults. • Natural Resource Protection (NR)—Actions that minimize hazard loss and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems. These actions include sediment and erosion control, stream corridor restoration, watershed management, forest and vegetation management, and wetland restoration and preservation.
• Structural Flood Control Projects (SP)—Actions that involve the construction of structures to reduce the impact of a hazard. Such structures include dams, setback levees, floodwalls, retaining walls, and safe rooms.
• Emergency Services (ES)—Actions that protect people and property during and immediately following a disaster or hazard event. Services include warning systems, emergency response services, and the protection of essential facilities