Riviera Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Riviera Reservoir, located in Santa Monica, California, is a crucial offstream water supply source managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this reservoir has a height of 40 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres, Riviera Reservoir plays a vital role in providing water to the surrounding area, contributing to the water supply infrastructure of Los Angeles County.

The dam at Riviera Reservoir has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The condition assessment conducted in September 2017 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with an emergency action plan in place. The reservoir is regulated and permitted by the California Department of Water Resources, with state jurisdiction and enforcement in place to oversee its operations and maintenance.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Riviera Reservoir in sustaining water supply for the region, especially in times of increasing water scarcity and climate variability. The dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to ensuring a reliable water source for the community, with measures in place to mitigate any potential risks. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Riviera Reservoir serves as a vital resource for the residents of Santa Monica and the broader Los Angeles County area.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1280

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

76

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.