Is Bay Harbor Islands, FL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B — but PFOS was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
79.1/100
waterverge.com Bay Harbor Islands, FL — Water Quality Report
Bay Harbor Islands's drinking water received a grade of B (79.1 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 6,000 residents using purchased ground water.
Lead levels were measured at 2.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 8 PFAS compounds, with levels exceeding EPA maximum contaminant levels in the water supply.
The system has 10 violations on record, including 2 health-based violations. 5 remain unresolved.
What to know about Bay Harbor Islands's water
Bay Harbor Islands ranks #153 out of 388 cities in Florida for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Bay Harbor Islands purchases its water from a regional wholesaler, meaning quality depends on both the supplier's treatment and the local distribution system's condition.
Of particular concern: PFAS "forever chemical" levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels. These synthetic compounds don't break down naturally and require specialized filtration such as reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Bay Harbor Islands, FL water safe to drink?
Bay Harbor Islands's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B (79.1/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 6,000 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Bay Harbor Islands
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
PFAS levels exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration recommended.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Bay Harbor Islands's water quality assessment. Grade: B (79.1/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4834). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3622). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: TTHM, Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Bay Harbor Islands's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
PFAS "forever chemicals" exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filtration strongly recommended.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 8 PFAS compounds in Bay Harbor Islands's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Bay Harbor Islands's water system has 10 total violations on record, including 2 health-based violations. 5 remain unresolved. 5 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Miami-Dade County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include C-8 Canal, C-7 Canal, Miami Canal Upstream Of S-26, C-8 Canal Upstream Of S-28.
Where does Bay Harbor Islands's water come from?
Bay Harbor Islands's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 6,000 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include C-8 Canal (stream), C-7 Canal (river), Miami Canal Upstream Of S-26 (stream), C-8 Canal Upstream Of S-28 (stream).
What Bay Harbor Islands residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Bay Harbor Islands's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Bay Harbor Islands's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Bay Harbor Islands
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Bay Harbor Islands, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
TROPICAL ROOFING PRODUCTS CORP HALLANDALE, FL33009 | — | — | 7.6 mi |
USPHARMA LTD. MIAMI LAKES, FL33014 | — | — | 9.9 mi |
KINGSPAN INSULATION (FORMERLY DYPLAST PRODUCTS LLC) OPA LOCKA, FL33054 | — | — | 8.0 mi |
GOODRICH CORP OPA LOCKA, FL33056 | — | — | 7.9 mi |
INVINCIBLE BOAT CO OPA LOCKA, FL33054 | — | — | 8.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Bay Harbor Islands
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- ANODYNE INC6.0 mi
- CONTINENTAL CLEANERS6.1 mi
- PETROLEUM PRODUCTS CORP7.6 mi
- AIRCO PLATING CO9.1 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtMiami-Dade County is currently in D3 (extreme drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Miami-Dade County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Bay Harbor Islands's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 2.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | 0.010 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | 0.011 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | 0.003 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | 0.004 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | 0.008 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.004 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.015 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | 0.009 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Bay Harbor Islands compares by contaminant
Explore where Bay Harbor Islands ranks among all Florida cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Bay Harbor Islands's water comes from
Bay Harbor Islands purchases its water supply from a regional wholesale provider rather than treating raw water directly.
Water quality depends on both the wholesaler's treatment standards and the condition of Bay Harbor Islands's local distribution pipes and storage facilities.
Purchased water systems are common in suburban areas and smaller communities that lack the infrastructure for independent treatment.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 6,000 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Bay Harbor Islands
Bay Harbor Islands is located near 4 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Bay Harbor Islands
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAY HARBOR ISLANDS TOWN OF | FL4130089 | 6,000 | GWP |
How Bay Harbor Islands compares
Full Florida rankings →Bay Harbor Islands's score of 79.1/100 is above the average of 50/100 among major Florida cities. It outscores 10 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Florida rankings →About Bay Harbor Islands, FL
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Bay Harbor Islands's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Miami-Dade
Frequently asked questions
Is Bay Harbor Islands, FL tap water safe to drink?
Bay Harbor Islands's water quality earned a grade of B (79.1/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #153 out of 388 cities tested in Florida.
What contaminants are in Bay Harbor Islands's water?
Lead was measured at 2.0 ppb (90th percentile). 8 PFAS compounds were detected. 10 violations are on record.
How is Bay Harbor Islands's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Bay Harbor Islands?
PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter is recommended.
Where does Bay Harbor Islands's water come from?
Bay Harbor Islands's water is sourced from Purchased ground water. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 6,000 residents.
What health violations has Bay Harbor Islands's water system had?
Bay Harbor Islands has 2 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 5 violations remain unresolved.
Is Bay Harbor Islands's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Bay Harbor Islands uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 10 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
Why does Bay Harbor Islands have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
8 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Bay Harbor Islands's water supply during UCMR 5 testing. PFAS contamination often originates from proximity to military installations (AFFF firefighting foam), airports, industrial manufacturing sites, or wastewater treatment facilities. Some levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels — a reverse osmosis or NSF-certified activated carbon filter is strongly recommended.
How does Bay Harbor Islands's water compare to other cities?
Bay Harbor Islands ranks #153 out of 388 cities in Florida (better than 61% of state cities) and #8372 out of 15744 cities nationally (47th percentile). The grade of B reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.