C41/100
Imperial Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 30,491 residents · California
What's In Imperial'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 | 280.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
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
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – July 15, 2024Enforcement: 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
IMPERIAL, CITY OF
Population Served
21,591
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1310006
CALIPATRIA STATE PRISON
Population Served
4,800
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1310800
CENTINELA STATE PRISON
Population Served
4,100
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1310801
Frequently Asked Questions About Imperial Water
Is Imperial tap water safe to drink?
Imperial, California tap water receives a grade of C (41/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 42 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Imperial's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Imperial's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Imperial have any water quality violations?
Yes, Imperial has 42 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, Other. 31 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Imperial?
Imperial 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Imperial's tap water come from?
Imperial's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by IMPERIAL, CITY OF and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 30,491 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Imperial'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. Imperial'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 Imperial's water compare to other cities in California?
Imperial's water quality score of 41/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Imperial's water quality?
If you have concerns about Imperial'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 (IMPERIAL, 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.