A86/100
Arroyo Grande Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 21,825 residents · California
What's In Arroyo Grande's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 800.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
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
CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE UTILITIES DIVISION
Population Served
17,963
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA4010001
WOODLANDS DEVELOPMENT
Population Served
3,862
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA4010081
Frequently Asked Questions About Arroyo Grande Water
Is Arroyo Grande tap water safe to drink?
Arroyo Grande, California tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 72 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Arroyo Grande's water?
Of the 72 contaminants tested in Arroyo Grande's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, 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 Arroyo Grande have any water quality violations?
Yes, Arroyo Grande has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Arroyo Grande?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Arroyo Grande 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 Arroyo Grande's tap water come from?
Arroyo Grande's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE UTILITIES DIVISION and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 21,825 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Arroyo Grande'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. Arroyo Grande'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 Arroyo Grande's water compare to other cities in California?
Arroyo Grande's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Arroyo Grande 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 Arroyo Grande's water quality?
If you have concerns about Arroyo Grande'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 (CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE UTILITIES DIVISION) 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.