B78/100
Oceano Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,601 residents · California
What's In Oceano's Tap Water?
35
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.62 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2021 – July 31, 2021Rule: Total Coliform 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
OCEANO COMM SERVICES DIST.
Population Served
7,601
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA4010005
Frequently Asked Questions About Oceano Water
Is Oceano tap water safe to drink?
Oceano, California tap water receives a grade of B (78/100), which is considered good. Out of 35 contaminants tested, 1 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 Oceano's water?
Of the 35 contaminants tested in Oceano's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Oceano have any water quality violations?
Yes, Oceano has 10 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MON, MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Oceano?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Oceano 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 Oceano's tap water come from?
Oceano's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by OCEANO COMM SERVICES DIST.. The system serves approximately 7,601 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Oceano'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. Oceano'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 Oceano's water compare to other cities in California?
Oceano's water quality score of 78/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Oceano's water quality?
If you have concerns about Oceano'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 (OCEANO COMM SERVICES DIST.) 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.