C56/100
Adelanto Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 42,965 residents · California
What's In Adelanto's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.59 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 590.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
HIGH DESERT DETENTION CENTER
Population Served
3,035
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3601182
ADELANTO, CITY OF
Population Served
39,930
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610001
Frequently Asked Questions About Adelanto Water
Is Adelanto tap water safe to drink?
Adelanto, California tap water receives a grade of C (56/100), which is considered fair. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 20 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Adelanto's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Adelanto's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOS, chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Adelanto have any water quality violations?
Yes, Adelanto has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Adelanto?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Adelanto is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Adelanto's tap water come from?
Adelanto's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by HIGH DESERT DETENTION CENTER and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 42,965 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Adelanto's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Adelanto's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Adelanto's water compare to other cities in California?
Adelanto's water quality score of 56/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Adelanto's water quality?
If you have concerns about Adelanto's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (HIGH DESERT DETENTION CENTER) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.