A98/100
Taft Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 20,500 residents · California
What's In Taft's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2011.
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
WEST KERN WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
20,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA1510022
Frequently Asked Questions About Taft Water
Is Taft tap water safe to drink?
Taft, California tap water receives a grade of A (98/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Taft's water?
66 contaminants were tested in Taft's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Taft have any water quality violations?
Yes, Taft has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2011. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Taft?
Taft 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Taft's tap water come from?
Taft's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by WEST KERN WATER DISTRICT. The system serves approximately 20,500 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Taft'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. Taft'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 Taft's water compare to other cities in California?
Taft's water quality score of 98/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Taft 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 Taft's water quality?
If you have concerns about Taft'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 (WEST KERN 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.