A84/100
Gilroy Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 59,203 residents · California
What's In Gilroy's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (single sample)
When: June 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Enforcement: Formal — state order issued
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 GILROY
Population Served
59,203
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA4310004
Frequently Asked Questions About Gilroy Water
Is Gilroy tap water safe to drink?
Gilroy, California tap water receives a grade of A (84/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Gilroy's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Gilroy's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Gilroy have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gilroy has 1 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gilroy?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Gilroy 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 Gilroy's tap water come from?
Gilroy's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CITY OF GILROY. The system serves approximately 59,203 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Gilroy'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. Gilroy'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 Gilroy's water compare to other cities in California?
Gilroy's water quality score of 84/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Gilroy 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 Gilroy's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gilroy'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 GILROY) 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.