Lead in Modesto, CA Drinking Water
Lead data for Modesto, California · 268,575 residents · 10 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Lead in Modesto, California: the highest detected level is 0.6 ppb; the EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). Lead carries a high health-risk designation.
Federal water monitoring extends to thousands of public water systems, and in Modesto, California, that tracking has turned up Lead - the detection is logged in the EPA compliance record and reflects samples collected under routine Safe Drinking Water Act reporting requirements.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Lead in Modesto Tap Water
Lead has been detected in Modesto, California drinking water at a maximum level of 0.6 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).
This analysis covers 268,575 residents across 10 ZIP codes in Modesto.
Modesto's overall water quality grade is A (95/100).
Is Lead in Modesto Water Safe?
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95350 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95351 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95352 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95353 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95354 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95355 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95356 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95357 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95358 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 95397 | 0.6 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
Average lead level across Modesto: 0.6 ppb
EPA Violations for Lead in Modesto
| Date | Violation Type | Status | ZIP Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-11-01 | Lead (Known) | Known | 95356 |
| 2021-11-01 | Lead (Known) | Known | 95357 |
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 Modesto Water
- Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
- Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
- Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.