A85/100
Fort Bragg Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,919 residents · California
What's In Fort Bragg's Tap Water?
52
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.57 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
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
FORT BRAGG, CITY OF
Population Served
6,919
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA2310001
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Bragg Water
Is Fort Bragg tap water safe to drink?
Fort Bragg, California tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 52 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 Fort Bragg's water?
Of the 52 contaminants tested in Fort Bragg'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 Fort Bragg have any water quality violations?
Yes, Fort Bragg has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, RPT, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Fort Bragg?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg's tap water come from?
Fort Bragg's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by FORT BRAGG, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 6,919 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Fort Bragg'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. Fort Bragg'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 Fort Bragg's water compare to other cities in California?
Fort Bragg's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg's water quality?
If you have concerns about Fort Bragg'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 (FORT BRAGG, 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.