Short answer: Pima County's FEMA National Risk Index report ranks hazards for Tucson tracts.
This guide is general information for homeowners and drivers in the Tucson area (Pima County). It isn't legal advice or a coverage determination. Your policy wording, underwriting, city and county ordinances, and state insurance and motor-vehicle rules control. Check your address on FEMA's National Risk Index (county report for Pima County) and the Flood Map Service Center.
Local hazards: FEMA National Risk Index for Pima County
Use FEMA's National Risk Index and the Pima County report.
Federal disaster declarations in Pima County
FEMA's disaster declarations data shows 10 major disaster declarations that included Pima County since 1966, led by flood events (8), severe storm events (1) and fire events (1). The most recent: Severe Storms and Flooding, 2006, Aspen Fire, 2003, Severe Storms, Tornadoes & Flooding, 1993 and Severe Storms & Flooding, 1990. FEMA also lists 1 emergency declarations for the county in the same data.
Flooding outside the FEMA map
The Pima County Regional Flood Control District recommends flood insurance even where it isn't required. It points out that in the 2012 monsoon season at least eight homes flooded, none of them in a FEMA floodplain. Pima County also maps local floodplains that don't appear on FEMA maps. Real estate agents only have to check the federal map, so before you buy a home, ask the District whether the property is in a locally mapped floodplain.
City versus unincorporated county
On April 1, 2024, the District became a Class 2 community in FEMA's Community Rating System. That means up to a 40% flood insurance discount for many property owners in unincorporated Pima County. Homes inside Tucson city limits fall under the City of Tucson's own floodplain program, so ask your agent which community discount applies to your address. The District notes that flood policies usually don't cover fences, walls, pools, landscaping or small sheds, and that building above the minimum elevation is the easiest way to lower premiums.
No Arizona FAIR Plan
Same statewide fact as Phoenix: DIFI does not operate a homeowners FAIR Plan.
Washes and monsoon season
Tucson parcels near major washes should confirm flood zones on the MSC and follow local drainage setbacks. Keep dry vegetation controlled under City/County weed and fire codes.
Auto: 25/50/15
AZDOT MVD: at least 25/50/15.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Arizona.
Frequently asked questions
What local hazard dominates monsoon season?
Flash flooding in washes plus wind/hail—check MSC maps and roof underwriting.
What auto liability does Arizona require?
At least 25/50/15.
Does a Tucson homeowners policy cover flood?
No; flood needs a separate policy.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.