C49/100
Porterville Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 67,005 residents · California
What's In Porterville's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.023 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.022 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
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
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
Tule River Reservation Main
Population Served
2,560
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
090600156
PORTERVILLE, CITY OF
Population Served
63,164
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA5410010
PORTERVILLE DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER
Population Served
1,281
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA5410801
Frequently Asked Questions About Porterville Water
Is Porterville tap water safe to drink?
Porterville, California tap water receives a grade of C (49/100), which is considered fair. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 512 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Porterville's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Porterville's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Porterville have any water quality violations?
Yes, Porterville has 512 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, MR, RPT. 34 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Porterville?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Porterville is recommended. 2 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 Porterville's tap water come from?
Porterville's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by Tule River Reservation Main and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 67,005 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Porterville'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. Porterville'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 Porterville's water compare to other cities in California?
Porterville's water quality score of 49/100 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 Porterville's water quality?
If you have concerns about Porterville'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 (Tule River Reservation Main) 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.