Programs
Encroachment Removal Incentive Program
Within SAFCA’s jurisdiction, where levee improvements are imminent, SAFCA has developed an Encroachment Removal Incentive Program to address encroachments (e.g. stairs, retaining walls, landscaping) that will be impacted by construction. State law requires encroachments that interfere with levee improvements or regular operations and maintenance activities be removed at the expense of the property owner. However, in order to facilitate the timely removal of encroachments situated in a project’s construction footprint, SAFCA will remove encroachments located within an existing flood control easement at no expense to the property owner and provide compensation for the removal based on an estimate of the current cost to replace the encroachment. Removal would be done under mutual consent and agreement by SAFCA and the encroachment owner within an established timeframe prior to the start of levee construction.
The incentive program was developed to help facilitate ease of encroachment removal in accordance with the timeframe associated with construction. SAFCA will identify any encroachments that will be impacted by a planned flood control project and notify the property owner in advance of construction. The notification will include details related to the type of construction anticipated at that location, the encroachment(s) impacted, and an offer to participate in the incentive program. Encroachments may be replaced by the owner after the levee construction is completed. This would require a permit through the Central Valley Flood Protection Board (CVFPB). Additional information about obtaining a CVFPB encroachment permit can be found on the website http://cvfpb.ca.gov/permitting.
Assessment Deferral Program
To assist low-income property owners, SAFCA continues to provide an Assessment Deferral Program (ADP). Application period for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-21 is currently closed. For interested persons please call SAFCA’s office at (916) 874-7606 for more information and eligibility requirements.