F19/100
Ceres Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 54,513 residents · California
What's In Ceres's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.024 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.012 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 260.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
vanadium | 42.00 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
CERES, CITY OF
Population Served
54,513
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA5010028
Frequently Asked Questions About Ceres Water
Is Ceres tap water safe to drink?
Ceres, California tap water receives a grade of F (19/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 15 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Ceres's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Ceres's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, chlorate, vanadium. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Ceres have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ceres has 15 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MCL. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Ceres?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Ceres 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 Ceres's tap water come from?
Ceres's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CERES, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 54,513 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Ceres'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. Ceres'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 Ceres's water compare to other cities in California?
Ceres's water quality score of 19/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Ceres's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ceres'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 (CERES, CITY OF) 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.