Flood Zone Information

Approximately 90% of the land area in the City of Sunrise is located in a flood plain. Heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms bring the greatest potential for flooding in the city. Even though the City of Sunrise has not yet experienced a major flood event, the potential still exists. In Sunrise, flooding can occur from several days of continued or scattered rainfall.

Flood Insurance
If you don't already have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover damage from floods. However, because Sunrise participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, you can purchase a separate flood insurance policy. This insurance is backed by the Federal government and is available to everyone, even for properties that have been flooded.

At last count, there were 21,880 flood insurance policies written for properties in the City of Sunrise. If you are covered, check the amount and type of coverage you have purchased. REMEMBER - even if the last flood missed you or you have done some flood proofing, the next flood could be worse. Flood insurance covers ALL surface floods. There is a five-day waiting period from the date of flood insurance applications until coverage becomes effective.

Sources of Information
The Broward County Public Library (Sunrise Branch) maintains flood hazard area maps, flood insurance information, and several publications and references concerning flood protection and preparedness.

The City of Sunrise Planning & Development Department at City Hall, 10770 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise, FL 33351 can advise of flood hazard information pertaining to specific parcels. Call (954) 746-3270.

The Broward County Division of Emergency Preparedness, 115 South Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301, can address questions concerning community and individual flood preparedness activities. Call (954) 831-3900 for information.

Identified Letters of Map Revision Within the City of Sunrise
· Communities
· Single Family Homes
· Commercial Sites


Flood Warning System
The most serious threat of general flooding is during the hurricane season (June 1st through November 30th). Residents should tune to TV and radio weather broadcasts and be alert to special local advisories. The following radio and TV stations will carry advisories for our area:

TV	AM Radio	FM Radio
WFOR Channel 4	WFTL 1400	WKIS 99.9
WTVJ Channel 6	WRBD 1470	WBGG 105.9
WSVN Channel 7	WSRF 1580
WPLG Channel 10

Further hurricane information is available through the Broward County Division of Emergency Preparedness at (954) 831-3900.

Flood Safety
There are several actions residents of flood hazard areas can take to decrease the potential of injury due to flooding:
1. Know the flood warning procedures.
2. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream where water is above your knees.
3. Keep children away from floodwaters, ditches, culverts and storm drains.
4. If your vehicle stalls in high water, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.
5. Evacuate the flood hazard area in times of impending floods or when advised to do so by the police or fire department.
6. Turn off all electric circuits at the fuse panel or disconnect switch. If this is not possible, turn off or disconnect all electrical appliances. Shut off the water service and gas valves in your home.

Property Protection Measures
There are various actions which can be taken to flood proof structures, including retrofitting, to minimize damage caused by flooding or hurricanes. Other methods include:
1. Install shutters over glass and windows.
2. Secure doorways on the first floor from floodwaters by applying sandbags, air conditioning duct tape or heavy plastic sheeting.
3. Secure all vent hoods, exhaust louvers, etc. from wind and rain.
4. Elevate air conditioning units, water heaters, washer/dryers and electrical panel boxes, or relocate them to a location less likely to be flooded.
5. Remove all loose items from terrace, patio or yard, and bring them indoors.

Please click the logos below for additional recommendations regarding flood preparedness:

Drainage System Maintenance
The City of Sunrise has a drainage system consisting of a tertiary system of catch basins and roadside swales; a secondary system of canals and lakes; and a primary canal system, which is regulated by the South Florida Water Management District. These canals serve as receiving waters for the City of Sunrise.

It is important that these elements of the drainage system be kept open and clear of debris and trash that could impede the flow of water in a flooding situation. Dumping of debris or trash in the drainage system is prohibited. Violators should be reported to (954) 572-2344.

Floodplain Development Permit Requirements
The City of Sunrise has special requirements concerning all forms of construction in the flood hazard area. All construction will require a building permit, which may be obtained from the City of Sunrise Building Department. Any structure making cumulative improvements totaling 50% or more of the structures value over a 10-year period of time shall be required to meet current code requirements. The Building Department can also assist you with guidelines on selecting a contractor. For further information, contact the Department at (954) 572-2356. To report illegal floodplain development, call the Sunrise Code Enforcement Department at (954) 572-2344.