B66/100
Lake Wales Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 21,870 residents · Florida
What's In Lake Wales's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 520.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
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
CITY OF LAKE WALES/PARK WATER COMPANY
Population Served
1,948
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL6530408
SADDLEBAG LAKE RESORT
Population Served
1,200
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL6531572
LAKE WALES, CITY OF
Population Served
18,722
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL6532234
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Wales Water
Is Lake Wales tap water safe to drink?
Lake Wales, Florida tap water receives a grade of B (66/100), which is considered good. Out of 66 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Lake Wales's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Lake Wales's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 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 Lake Wales have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lake Wales has 60 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, RPT. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lake Wales?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lake Wales 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 Lake Wales's tap water come from?
Lake Wales's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CITY OF LAKE WALES/PARK WATER COMPANY and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 21,870 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Lake Wales'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. Lake Wales'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 Lake Wales's water compare to other cities in Florida?
Lake Wales's water quality score of 66/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Florida state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lake Wales's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lake Wales'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 (CITY OF LAKE WALES/PARK 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.