C45/100
Arcadia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 18,264 residents · Florida
What's In Arcadia's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
ARCADIA WATER DEPT, CITY OF
Population Served
8,942
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
FL6140314
DESOTO CORRECTIONAL INST
Population Served
3,134
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL6140451
LAKE SUZY SUBDIVISION
Population Served
2,670
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
FL6144856
DESOTO COUNTY WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
3,518
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
FL6144898
Frequently Asked Questions About Arcadia Water
Is Arcadia tap water safe to drink?
Arcadia, Florida tap water receives a grade of C (45/100), which is considered fair. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 65 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Arcadia's water?
Of the 55 contaminants tested in Arcadia's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Arcadia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Arcadia has 65 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MCL, MR. 27 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Arcadia?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Arcadia is recommended. 3 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 Arcadia's tap water come from?
Arcadia's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ARCADIA WATER DEPT, CITY OF and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 18,264 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Arcadia'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. Arcadia'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 Arcadia's water compare to other cities in Florida?
Arcadia's water quality score of 45/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Florida state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Arcadia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Arcadia'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 (ARCADIA WATER DEPT, CITY OF) 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.