TapSafetyReport
A81/100

Independence Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)

Serving 2,943 residents · California

What's In Independence's Tap Water?

1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals

EPA Violation History

8

Violations (last 5yr)

3

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.

When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved

Treatment technique violation

When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved

Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: January 1, 2024 – January 31, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved

Surface water treatment technique failure

When: July 1, 2023 – June 27, 2024Enforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved

Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved

Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved

Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved

Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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

INYO COUNTY PWD - INDEPENDENCE
Population Served

1,108

Water Source

Purchased Groundwater

System ID

CA1410008

INYO COUNTY PWD - LONE PINE
Population Served

1,835

Water Source

Purchased Groundwater

System ID

CA1410009

Frequently Asked Questions About Independence Water

Is Independence tap water safe to drink?

Independence, California tap water receives a grade of A (81/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.

What contaminants are in Independence's water?

1 contaminants were tested in Independence's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.

Does Independence have any water quality violations?

Yes, Independence has 25 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.

Do I need a water filter in Independence?

Independence 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. All contaminants are within health goals.

Where does Independence's tap water come from?

Independence's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by INYO COUNTY PWD - INDEPENDENCE and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 2,943 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.

How often is Independence'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. Independence'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 Independence's water compare to other cities in California?

Independence's water quality score of 81/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Independence 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 Independence's water quality?

If you have concerns about Independence'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 (INYO COUNTY PWD - INDEPENDENCE) 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.

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