Free sandbags in San Diego 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 San Diego County, CA
The County and CAL FIRE give out free sandbags, mostly at fire stations in unincorporated areas, and many cities run their own sites. Some sites have only bags, so bring a shovel and call ahead; many limit you to 10 bags.
- Sand and sandbag locationsalertsandiego.org
Checked against official sources on November 1, 2026.
Free storm alerts for San Diego County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for San Diego 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 San Diego County
8,897 FEMA flood-zone areas mapped across 408 map panels.
MyStormPlan hosts FEMA's flood map data for San Diego County (FEMA data as of September 3, 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
San Diego County's official alert system is AlertSanDiego. 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 San Diego County, CA?
The County and CAL FIRE give out free sandbags, mostly at fire stations in unincorporated areas, and many cities run their own sites. Some sites have only bags, so bring a shovel and call ahead; many limit you to 10 bags.
How do I get emergency alerts in San Diego County, CA?
Sign up for AlertSanDiego, 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 San Diego 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.
More counties in California
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