B71/100
Boulder Creek Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 25,485 residents · California
What's In Boulder Creek's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 460.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
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
SLVWD - FELTON WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
4,340
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA4410002
SAN LORENZO VALLEY WATER DIST
Population Served
21,145
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA4410014
Frequently Asked Questions About Boulder Creek Water
Is Boulder Creek tap water safe to drink?
Boulder Creek, California tap water receives a grade of B (71/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Boulder Creek's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Boulder Creek's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Boulder Creek have any water quality violations?
Yes, Boulder Creek has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Boulder Creek?
Boulder Creek water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Boulder Creek's tap water come from?
Boulder Creek's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by SLVWD - FELTON WATER SYSTEM and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 25,485 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Boulder Creek'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. Boulder Creek'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 Boulder Creek's water compare to other cities in California?
Boulder Creek's water quality score of 71/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Boulder Creek's water quality?
If you have concerns about Boulder Creek'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 (SLVWD - FELTON WATER SYSTEM) 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.