Sunset North Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Sunset North Basin, also known as Sunset Reservoir, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in San Francisco, California.


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Summary

Constructed in 1938, this offstream earth dam stands at a height of 74 feet and has a hydraulic height of 72 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. With a surface area of 12 acres, this dam serves as a key component for water supply purposes in the region.

Managed by the local government, Sunset North Basin is regulated and inspected by the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams to ensure its safety and proper functioning. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in February 2020. The emergency action plan for the dam is being regularly updated to meet guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding community in case of any unforeseen events.

Situated in a scenic location in San Francisco, Sunset North Basin plays a crucial role in water management and supply for the area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam continues to be a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to understand the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

74

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

72

Nid Storage

275

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

74
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.