A87/100
Buellton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,161 residents · California
What's In Buellton's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.70 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2014.
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 BUELLTON WATER DIVISION
Population Served
5,161
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA4210018
Frequently Asked Questions About Buellton Water
Is Buellton tap water safe to drink?
Buellton, California tap water receives a grade of A (87/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 32 contaminants tested, 1 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 Buellton's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Buellton's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Buellton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buellton has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2014. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Buellton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Buellton 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 Buellton's tap water come from?
Buellton's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF BUELLTON WATER DIVISION. The system serves approximately 5,161 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buellton'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. Buellton'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 Buellton's water compare to other cities in California?
Buellton's water quality score of 87/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Buellton 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 Buellton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buellton'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 BUELLTON WATER 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.