A80/100
Apple Valley Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 50,335 residents · California
What's In Apple Valley's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2009.
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
THUNDERBIRD CWD
Population Served
2,098
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3600306
MARIANA RANCHOS CWD
Population Served
1,502
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610030
GOLDEN STATE WATER CO - BARSTOW
Population Served
32,547
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610043
GOLDEN STATE WATER CO - WRIGHTWOOD
Population Served
4,177
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610047
GOLDEN STATE WATER CO - MORONGO DEL SUR
Population Served
1,717
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610063
GOLDEN STATE WATER CO - APPLE VLY NORTH
Population Served
2,086
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610105
GOLDEN STATE WATER CO - APPLE VLY SOUTH
Population Served
6,208
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA3610107
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Valley Water
Is Apple Valley tap water safe to drink?
Apple Valley, California tap water receives a grade of A (80/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Apple Valley's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Apple Valley's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Apple Valley have any water quality violations?
Yes, Apple Valley has 36 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, MR, MON. 21 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Apple Valley?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Apple Valley is recommended. 1 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 Apple Valley's tap water come from?
Apple Valley's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by THUNDERBIRD CWD and 6 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 50,335 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Apple Valley'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. Apple Valley'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 Apple Valley's water compare to other cities in California?
Apple Valley's water quality score of 80/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Apple Valley 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 Apple Valley's water quality?
If you have concerns about Apple Valley'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 (THUNDERBIRD CWD) 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.