Government risk assessment for homebuyers considering 94901. Data from FEMA, USGS, CAL FIRE, CGS, OpenFEMA, and EPA.
D
Estimated Risk Exposure
$67,000
Ranked #8 of 25 Bay Area zip codes analyzed
71
Risk Score (0–100)
Identified Risks
🌊FEMA flood zones
⚡San Andreas Fault <6mi
🔥Wildfire moderate
⚠️15 FEMA disasters
Risk Assessment Detail
Downtown areas flood regularly — San Rafael Creek overflows during heavy storms. Within San Andreas Fault influence zone. Hills above city in CAL FIRE moderate-high wildfire zones. Limited evacuation routes.
FEMA Flood ZoneAE (downtown)
Nearest FaultSan Andreas Fault (6 miles)
Wildfire SeverityModerate-High (hillside)
Liquefaction RiskMinimal
FEMA Disaster Declarations15 since 2000
CountyMarin County, CA
💰 Insurance & Cost Implications
Downtown properties need flood insurance. Hillside homes should evaluate wildfire insurance riders and defensible space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 94901 in a flood zone?
Yes — FEMA maps show flood zone designation AE (downtown) in parts of San Rafael. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones starting with A or V) require mandatory flood insurance if you have a federally-backed mortgage. Premiums typically range from $2,000 to $4,500 per year.
What is the earthquake risk in San Rafael?
San Rafael is located 6 miles from the San Andreas Fault. Liquefaction risk is minimal in this area, but seismic shaking from nearby faults is still a concern. Marin County has experienced 15 FEMA disaster declarations since 2000. The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) offers residential earthquake insurance — coverage is optional but recommended this close to active faults.
Is San Rafael in a wildfire zone?
CAL FIRE has designated portions of San Rafael as Moderate-High (hillside) Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ). This means defensible space requirements apply, insurance premiums may be higher, and some insurers may decline coverage. Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ viewer for your exact property.
How is the $67,000 exposure calculated?
The exposure estimate is based on industry-standard cost models: NFIP average flood insurance claims, USGS earthquake damage probability models, CAL FIRE wildfire rebuilding cost data, and historical disaster costs from OpenFEMA. It represents the estimated financial impact of the identified risks based on what these events actually cost homeowners. Individual properties will vary based on exact location, construction, elevation, and proximity to specific hazards.
Data Sources & Methodology
Flood zones: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) — msc.fema.gov