Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Petaluma, CA Drinking Water

Copper data for Petaluma, California · 61,570 residents · 6 ZIP codes

Within Petaluma, California, Copper has been detected in water samples drawn from the public supply — the results are part of the official EPA compliance record for systems here.

2130 ppb
Max Level Detected
2130 ppb
Average Level
1.3 mg/L (action level)
EPA action level
Moderate
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block
Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Copper in Petaluma Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Petaluma, California drinking water at a maximum level of 2130 ppb1.64x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 61,570 residents across 6 ZIP codes in Petaluma.

Petaluma's overall water quality grade is A (89/100).

Is Copper in Petaluma Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Petaluma exceed the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level). The EPA requires water systems to take corrective action when this limit is exceeded.

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter certified under NSF 53 and testing your water independently.

Copper Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code Copper Level EPA Limit Status
94952 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
94953 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
94954 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
94955 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
94975 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
94999 2130 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit

Average copper level across Petaluma: 2130 ppb

Health Effects of Copper

  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (short-term, high levels)
  • Liver and kidney damage (long-term)
  • Particularly dangerous for people with Wilson's disease
  • Infants are more sensitive than adults

Health risk severity: Moderate. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule.

How Copper Gets Into Drinking Water

  • Corrosion of copper household plumbing
  • Acidic (low pH) water accelerates copper leaching
  • New copper pipes leach more than aged ones
  • Mining and industrial discharge (rare for tap water)

What to Do About Copper in Petaluma Water

  1. Run water for 30-60 seconds before use (flushes stagnant water)
  2. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter
  3. If pH is low, consider a whole-home acid neutralizer
  4. Test first-draw morning water to check actual copper levels

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 for copper removal.

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