Pacoima
Key Takeaway
Pacoima is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1929 and is 97 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 365 ft (taller than 99.2% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 68 acres |
| Drainage Area | 28 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1929 (97 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00193 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Los Angeles County Department Of Public Works
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lopez Dam
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 50 ftWilson Debris Basin
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 50 ftSchoolhouse Debris Basin
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 38 ftHansen Recreational Lake
Los Angeles, CA
Low Hazard 50 ftHansen Dam
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 97 ftYarnell Debris Basin
Los Angeles, CA
Low Hazard 42 ftLos Angeles Reservoir
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 130 ftLower San Fernando
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 125 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pacoima?
Pacoima is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Pacoima?
Pacoima is owned by Los Angeles County Department Of Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pacoima built?
Pacoima was completed in 1929, making it 97 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Pacoima?
Pacoima serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pacoima?
Pacoima has a dam height of 365 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Pacoima last inspected?
Pacoima was last inspected on October 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.