Water Quality
California is home to some of the most rigorous drinking water protections in the world—and LA County is no exception. Every day, millions of people rely on tap water that is carefully cleaned, tested and monitored to meet strict public health standards. Public water agencies invest in advanced treatment technology, infrastructure and continuous monitoring to deliver water that is clean, safe and reliable at a fraction of the cost of bottled water.
Strong Oversight
LA County contains a complex network of over 200 water systems, each managed by separate decision-makers who are responsible by law, for providing clean and affordable drinking water to millions of people. Drinking water in California is regulated under some of the strongest laws in the nation. Local water systems must comply with both:
Federal regulations
enforced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Safe Drinking Water Act
State regulations
enforced by the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Division of Drinking Water
Public water utilities test regularly for contaminants and if an issue is detected, providers must take immediate corrective action and notify the public.
California state drinking water standards
are often more protective than federal requirements.
Drinking Water Contaminants
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals," are a group of synthetic (man-made) chemicals that breakdown slowly over time. Because of their widespread use, they are persistent in our water, soil, and air. Water agencies across LA County continuously monitor and test for PFAS in local water sources and are developing treatment plans to ensure drinking water meets or exceeds all state and federal standards. Investments in groundwater remediation and advanced treatment technologies are helping to address PFAS and protect local water supplies for the long term.
Water in Your Community
Every single year, your public water agency releases a water quality report called a Consumer Confidence Report. CCRs include:
- Where your water comes from
- What contaminants were tested for
- The results of those tests
- How results compare to state and federal standards
Local water agencies typically mail CCRs to every customer and post the report on their website each year. Visit your local water agency’s website to learn more about your local water system and review water quality information specific to your community.
The Truth About Tap Water vs Bottled Water
Tap Water is one of the most closely monitored consumer products in the county.
Bottled water is often sourced from the same municipal supply as tap water – it’s just packaged in a bottle and sold at a premium.
Tap water cost 0.66 cents/gal
Bottled water cost $10/gal
Tap water is regulated by the EPA & State of California
Bottled water is regulated as food product by the FDA
Tap water is subject to public reporting requirements
Bottled water is NOT required to disclose detailed testing results
Tap water is plastic and packaging-free
Bottled water is a major source of plastic waste
Public tap water is one of the most closely monitored consumer products in the country. For most Californians, it provides a safe, affordable and environmentally responsible source of drinking water.
Some communities have had firsthand experience with water quality issues, a history of environmental injustice, or awareness of water crises in other parts of the state and country. While trust isn’t built overnight, learning how your water is tested, treated and regulated, you gain the tools to advocate for your community and ensure your water provider is meeting the highest standards.
Learn More With Path to Tap
