Copper in Santa Monica, CA Drinking Water
Copper data for Santa Monica, California · 93,880 residents · 11 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Copper in Santa Monica, California: the highest detected level is 2.1 ppb; the EPA limit is 1.3 mg/L (action level). Copper carries a moderate health-risk designation.
Water quality records for Santa Monica, California show Copper detections on file - a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Copper in Santa Monica Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Santa Monica, California drinking water at a maximum level of 2.1 ppm — 1.62x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 93,880 residents across 11 ZIP codes in Santa Monica.
Santa Monica's overall water quality grade is B (82/100).
Is Copper in Santa Monica Water Safe?
Copper was detected in Santa Monica water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce copper levels further.
Copper Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Copper Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90401 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90402 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90403 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90404 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90405 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90406 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90407 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90408 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90409 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90410 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 90411 | 2.1 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Santa Monica: 2.1 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 Santa Monica Water
- Run water for 30-60 seconds before use (flushes stagnant water)
- Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter
- If pH is low, consider a whole-home acid neutralizer
- Test first-draw morning water to check actual copper levels
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 for copper removal.