B73/100
South Lake Tahoe Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 107,345 residents · California
What's In South Lake Tahoe's Tap Water?
74
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.49 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
molybdenum | 65.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2008.
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
LUKINS BROTHERS WATER COMPANY
Population Served
3,277
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA0910007
TAHOE KEYS WATER COMPANY
Population Served
1,420
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA0910015
LAKESIDE PARK ASSOCIATION
Population Served
2,648
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CA0910019
SOUTH TAHOE PUD - MAIN
Population Served
100,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA0910002
Frequently Asked Questions About South Lake Tahoe Water
Is South Lake Tahoe tap water safe to drink?
South Lake Tahoe, California tap water receives a grade of B (73/100), which is considered good. Out of 74 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 South Lake Tahoe's water?
Of the 74 contaminants tested in South Lake Tahoe's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), molybdenum. 1 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 South Lake Tahoe have any water quality violations?
Yes, South Lake Tahoe has 34 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MR, MCL. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in South Lake Tahoe?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe's tap water come from?
South Lake Tahoe's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by LUKINS BROTHERS WATER COMPANY and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 107,345 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is South Lake Tahoe'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. South Lake Tahoe'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 South Lake Tahoe's water compare to other cities in California?
South Lake Tahoe's water quality score of 73/100 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 South Lake Tahoe's water quality?
If you have concerns about South Lake Tahoe'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 (LUKINS BROTHERS WATER COMPANY) 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.