A89/100
Novato Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 63,532 residents · California
What's In Novato's Tap Water?
77
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.95 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 240.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1993.
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
NORTH MARIN WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
61,691
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA2110003
NORTH MARIN WD - PT. REYES
Population Served
1,841
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA2110006
Frequently Asked Questions About Novato Water
Is Novato tap water safe to drink?
Novato, California tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 77 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 Novato's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Novato's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), chlorate. 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 Novato have any water quality violations?
Yes, Novato has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1996. Violation types include MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Novato?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Novato 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 Novato's tap water come from?
Novato's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by NORTH MARIN WATER DISTRICT and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 63,532 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Novato'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. Novato'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 Novato's water compare to other cities in California?
Novato's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Novato 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 Novato's water quality?
If you have concerns about Novato'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 (NORTH MARIN WATER DISTRICT) 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.