Exceeds EPA Limit Lead EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Lead in Lake Forest, CA Drinking Water

Lead data for Lake Forest, California · 51,980 residents · 1 ZIP code

At elevated levels, Lead is a recognized health concern in drinking water; in Lake Forest, California, it has been detected in recent samples logged through federal compliance reporting.

800 ppb
Max Level Detected
800 ppb
Average Level
15 ppb (action level)
EPA action level
3
EPA Violations
High
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block
Best Filter Method

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

Lead in Lake Forest Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Lake Forest, California drinking water at a maximum level of 800 ppb53.33x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 51,980 residents across 1 ZIP code in Lake Forest.

Lake Forest's overall water quality grade is B (80/100).

Is Lead in Lake Forest Water Safe?

Lead levels in parts of Lake Forest exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb (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 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code Lead Level EPA Limit Status
92630 800 ppb 15 ppb (action level) Exceeds limit

Average lead level across Lake Forest: 800 ppb

EPA Violations for Lead in Lake Forest

Date Violation Type Status ZIP Code
2023-04-01 Lead (Resolved) Resolved 92630
2022-10-01 Lead (Known) Known 92630
2022-07-01 Lead (Known) Known 92630

Health Effects of Lead

  • Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
  • Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
  • High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
  • Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

  • Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
  • Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
  • Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
  • Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Lake Forest Water

  1. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
  2. Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
  3. Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
  4. Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

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