In an effort to help residents and local businesses prepare for potential El Niño storms, the City of Carpinteria’s fill-your-own sandbag station is now open at City Hall, 5775 Carpinteria Ave.
Supplies are first-come, first-served and may run out during peak events, so prepare early. Please take only what you need to protect your property.
How to Fill Sandbags
- Fill bags ½ to ⅔ full with sand.
- Tie or securely close the top.
How to Use Sandbags
- Sandbags divert low-level water flows (up to 2 feet). To build a sturdy barrier:
- Lay the Base Row: Place bags lengthwise, parallel to the flow of water.
- Tamp Each Bag: Walk on or firmly stamp down each bag to mold the sand, remove air pockets, and seal gaps.
- Stagger Layers: Stack subsequent rows like bricks, offsetting joints by half a bag length.
© 2026 City of Carpinteria. All Rights Reserved.