A93/100
Anaheim Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 789,337 residents · California
What's In Anaheim's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 622.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
1,4-dioxane | 0.639 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Other Violation
When: October 1, 2022 – November 11, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Other Violation
When: October 1, 2021 – November 5, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
GSWC - ARTESIA
Population Served
50,375
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA1910004
GSWC - BELL, BELL GARDENS
Population Served
54,877
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910011
GSWC - CULVER CITY
Population Served
38,213
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910030
GSWC - WILLOWBROOK
Population Served
10,747
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910072
GSWC - FLORENCE/GRAHAM
Population Served
63,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910077
GSWC - NORWALK
Population Served
43,176
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910098
GSWC - HOLLYDALE
Population Served
8,099
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA1910195
CITY OF ANAHEIM
Population Served
348,593
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA3010001
GOLDEN STATE WC - PLACENTIA/YORBA LINDA
Population Served
50,381
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA3010035
GOLDEN STATE WC - COWAN HEIGHTS
Population Served
6,997
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA3010047
GOLDEN STATE WC - WEST ORANGE COUNTY
Population Served
114,379
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA3010022
Frequently Asked Questions About Anaheim Water
Is Anaheim tap water safe to drink?
Anaheim, California tap water receives a grade of A (93/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 79 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 5 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Anaheim's water?
Of the 79 contaminants tested in Anaheim's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate, 1,4-dioxane. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Anaheim have any water quality violations?
Yes, Anaheim has 10 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include Other, MCL. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Anaheim?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Anaheim 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 Anaheim's tap water come from?
Anaheim's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by GSWC - ARTESIA and 10 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 789,337 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Anaheim'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. Anaheim'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 Anaheim's water compare to other cities in California?
Anaheim's water quality score of 93/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Anaheim among the better-performing water systems in California. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Anaheim's water quality?
If you have concerns about Anaheim'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 (GSWC - ARTESIA) 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.