Water Quality in Turlock, CA: No Violations — Grade D
Grade D · Score 54/100 · 5 water systems · Updated 2026-05-03
Turlock's water has significant violations. Water testing and filtration are recommended.
Data: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) Last verified: 2026-05-03
What does the EPA compliance record show for Turlock, CA? Zero violations documented across 5 water systems, with all health-based and monitoring thresholds met across all available federal records.
Water Quality by ZIP Code in Turlock
Water quality varies across Turlock's 3 ZIP codes. Check your specific ZIP for detailed contaminant data.
| ZIP Code | Grade | Score | Violations | Health | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 95380 | C | 65 | 0 | 0 | View report → |
| 95381 | C | 66 | 0 | 0 | View report → |
| 95382 | B | 70 | 0 | 0 | View report → |
Water Quality Overview
Turlock, California receives a water quality grade of D with an overall score of 54 out of 100, based on EPA compliance data from the Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS).
No EPA violations have been recorded for the 5 water systems serving Turlock. This is a positive indicator, though it does not guarantee the absence of all contaminants — some substances (like PFAS) are not yet fully regulated.
What Grade D Means
A grade of D indicates significant compliance issues. Turlock's water systems have accumulated violations that suggest ongoing water quality challenges. Residents should check their specific ZIP code report and consider water testing or filtration.
Lead Levels
The average 90th percentile lead level across Turlock water systems is 0.0320 mg/L — this exceeds the EPA action level of 0.015 mg/L. 3 ZIP codes exceed the EPA lead action level.
With 56% of homes built before 1986, Turlock has a higher-than-average risk of lead from older plumbing. Lead solder was banned in 1986, and homes built before this date may have lead in pipes, solder joints, or fixtures.
Radon Risk
Turlock is in EPA Radon Zone 2 (Moderate risk). Testing is recommended, especially for homes with basements or ground-level living spaces.
Water Systems Serving Turlock
Turlock is served by 5 community water systems regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. These systems collectively serve approximately 73,176 people across 3 ZIP codes.
Each water system is identified by a Public Water System ID (PWSID) and is required to:
- Test for over 90 regulated contaminants on a regular schedule
- Report results to the EPA and state regulators
- Issue an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) to all customers
- Take corrective action when violations occur
The EPA has taken 18 enforcement actions against water systems serving Turlock. Enforcement actions range from informal compliance assistance to formal orders and penalties.
How to Check Your Water in Turlock
Enter your ZIP code on ZipCheckup to see your specific water system data, including contaminant levels, violation history, and safety scores
Request your CCR — your water utility must provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report with detailed test results for all monitored contaminants
Get a home test — certified kits cost $20–$50 and test for lead, bacteria, and common contaminants. Professional lab tests ($150–$400) cover a broader panel
Consider filtration — NSF-certified filters can remove specific contaminants. Reverse osmosis removes the broadest range; activated carbon is effective for chlorine and many organics
Check for advisories — monitor your local utility website and local news for boil water advisories or system alerts
EPA Enforcement History
The EPA and state regulators have taken 6 enforcement actions against water systems serving Turlock. Recent actions:
| Date | Action Type |
|---|---|
| 2025-01-30 | State Order Extension |
| 2024-05-24 | State Filed Suit |
| 2024-02-20 | State Filed Suit |
| 2023-01-10 | State Filed Suit |
| 2022-03-28 | State Order Extension |
| 2022-01-10 | State Filed Suit |
Enforcement actions range from informal compliance assistance to formal orders and penalties. The most recent action was on 2025-01-30.
Turlock vs. Nearby California Cities
How Turlock's water quality compares to similar cities in California:
| City | Grade | Violations | Systems | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turlock | D | 0 | 5 | 73,176 |
| Baldwin Park | B | 2 | 2 | 73,484 |
| Calabasas | B | 0 | 1 | 72,602 |
| Canoga Park | C | 0 | 1 | 72,602 |
Water Quality by ZIP Code in Turlock
Water quality varies across Turlock's ZIP codes. The table below shows the worst-scoring and best-scoring areas:
Common Questions About Turlock Water
These are the most common questions residents search for about water quality in Turlock, California:
Is Turlock water hard or soft? Water hardness varies by source. Turlock's 5 water systems use multiple sources. Check your ZIP code report for specific hardness data.
Can I drink Turlock tap water? Turlock's water receives a grade of D (54/100). No health-based violations have been recorded, but home testing is always recommended.
What is the best water filter for Turlock? A NSF/ANSI 53-certified filter for lead removal is a good general choice. See our Water Filter Matcher for personalized recommendations.
Turlock vs. California Average
Understanding how Turlock compares to the broader California average helps contextualize your local water quality. Factors like water source, treatment methods, and infrastructure age all contribute to differences between cities in the same state.
To see how individual neighborhoods compare, check the ZIP code reports below — water quality can vary significantly even within Turlock.
ZIP Codes in Turlock
Turlock spans 3 ZIP codes. Each ZIP code has its own water quality profile based on the specific water system serving that area. Check each ZIP code for detailed contaminant data, violation history, and system information.
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS)
- Lead/copper: EPA Lead and Copper Rule sampling data
- Radon: EPA Map of Radon Zones
- Enforcement: EPA ECHO database
- Filter recommendations: NSF/ANSI certified products
Updated daily.