A90/100
Nevada City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,148 residents · California
What's In Nevada City's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: January 1, 2023 – January 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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 NEVADA CITY
Population Served
3,148
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA2910002
Frequently Asked Questions About Nevada City Water
Is Nevada City tap water safe to drink?
Nevada City, California tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none 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 Nevada City's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Nevada City's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Nevada City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Nevada City has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include TT, MR, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Nevada City?
Nevada City 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Nevada City's tap water come from?
Nevada City's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CITY OF NEVADA CITY. The system serves approximately 3,148 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Nevada City'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. Nevada City'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 Nevada City's water compare to other cities in California?
Nevada City's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Nevada City 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 Nevada City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Nevada City'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 NEVADA CITY) 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.