Free sandbags in Alameda County, CA
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Alameda County, CA
Residents of unincorporated areas can get up to 5 free sandbags per household at self-serve County Public Works yards in Hayward and Dublin and at some fire stations and sites in Castro Valley and Sunol, open around the clock once the first major storm of the season is forecast. Bring your own shovel; city residents should check with their city.
- Alameda County: sandbag locationsacpwa.org
Checked against official sources on November 1, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Alameda County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Alameda County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Flood maps for Alameda County
3,623 FEMA flood-zone areas mapped across 164 map panels.
MyStormPlan hosts FEMA's flood map data for Alameda County (FEMA data as of May 25, 2026), so you can see the exact zone at your front door in seconds. You'll also see wildfire, earthquake and other hazard layers for your address.
Get official emergency alerts
Alameda County's official alert system is AC Alert. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Alameda County, CA?
Residents of unincorporated areas can get up to 5 free sandbags per household at self-serve County Public Works yards in Hayward and Dublin and at some fire stations and sites in Castro Valley and Sunol, open around the clock once the first major storm of the season is forecast. Bring your own shovel; city residents should check with their city.
How do I get emergency alerts in Alameda County, CA?
Sign up for AC Alert, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Alameda County, CA?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.
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