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Pismo Beach, CA Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 2 ZIP codes in Pismo Beach, California

Average Score

74/100

Health Violations

6

ZIP Codes

2

High Lead Risk

0

of 2 ZIP codes

B

About Tap Water in Pismo Beach, CA

The drinking water in Pismo Beach, CA generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 74/100 across 2 ZIP codes. While the primary water utility, Pismo Beach Water Department, maintains adequate compliance with EPA regulations, there have been minor or administrative violations on record. Overall, residents receive safe tap water that is actively monitored by California State Water Resources Control Board.

The accumulation of 6 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Pismo Beach's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by California State Water Resources Control Board. The city relies on surface water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Fortunately, the modeled risk for widespread lead exposure in Pismo Beach's municipal water is relatively low compared to national averages. However, because lead typically enters drinking water through the corrosion of older, individual home plumbing rather than the main supply lines, residents in homes built before 1986 should still exercise caution by running the tap before use.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Pismo Beach

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Pismo Beach water systems over the past 5 years.

Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM)

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Pismo Beach, CA

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

Frequently Asked Questions — Pismo Beach Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Pismo Beach, CA?+
Yes — tap water in Pismo Beach meets all federal EPA standards and earns a B grade. It is generally safe for healthy adults. As always, running your tap for 30 seconds before use and using a filter adds extra protection for vulnerable populations.
What is the water quality score for Pismo Beach?+
The average water quality score across 2 ZIP codes in Pismo Beach, CA is 74/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Pismo Beach have lead in its tap water?+
Lead risk ratings in Pismo Beach are relatively low based on EPA monitoring data. However, lead in home plumbing is a separate concern — if your home was built before 1986, individual tap testing is recommended.
How do I get the water quality report for Pismo Beach?+
Each ZIP code in Pismo Beach has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Pismo Beach's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Pismo Beach, CA primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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