B76/100
Port Charlotte Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 184,865 residents · Florida
What's In Port Charlotte's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 966.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.010 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – May 24, 2024Enforcement: 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
CHARLOTTE COUNTY UTILITIES
Population Served
172,040
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
FL5084100
RIVERWOOD COMMUNITY DEL. DIST.
Population Served
2,243
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
FL5084111
CHARLOTTE COUNTY UTILITIES / BURNT STORE
Population Served
10,582
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
FL6080318
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Charlotte Water
Is Port Charlotte tap water safe to drink?
Port Charlotte, Florida tap water receives a grade of B (76/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 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 Port Charlotte's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Port Charlotte'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 Port Charlotte have any water quality violations?
Yes, Port Charlotte has 28 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Port Charlotte?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Port Charlotte 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 Port Charlotte's tap water come from?
Port Charlotte's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CHARLOTTE COUNTY UTILITIES and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 184,865 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Port Charlotte'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. Port Charlotte'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 Port Charlotte's water compare to other cities in Florida?
Port Charlotte's water quality score of 76/100 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 Port Charlotte's water quality?
If you have concerns about Port Charlotte'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 (CHARLOTTE COUNTY UTILITIES) 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.