ZipCheckup tracks Fluoride in California drinking water: 0 ZIP codes with detected levels on record. 7 ZIP codes exceed the EPA limit (4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL)). Fluoride carries a moderate health-risk designation.

Fluoride Contamination in California

ZipCheckup analyzed EPA enforcement records across 1,479 ZIP codes in California. 7 ZIP codes have fluoride-related violations on record.

The violation rate for fluoride in California is 0.5% of all ZIP codes — lower than the national average.

EPA Standard for Fluoride

The EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for fluoride is 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL), governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. Water systems that exceed this limit must take corrective action and notify consumers.

Health Effects of Fluoride

At levels above the EPA MCL of 4 mg/L, fluoride can cause skeletal fluorosis (bone pain, joint stiffness). The secondary standard of 2 mg/L is set to prevent dental fluorosis in children. At levels used in water fluoridation (0.7 mg/L), fluoride helps prevent tooth decay.

How to Remove Fluoride From Drinking Water

The most effective treatment for fluoride removal is Reverse Osmosis or Activated Alumina. Look for filters certified under NSF 58 standards.

Check Your ZIP Code

Use the ZipCheckup water quality search to see fluoride data for your specific water system in California.