Is Lake Charles, LA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F, with 177 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
43.9/100
waterverge.com Lake Charles, LA — Water Quality Report
Lake Charles's drinking water received a grade of F (43.9 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 17 water systems serve approximately 120,200 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.8 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 1 PFAS compound in the water supply.
The system has 369 violations on record, including 63 health-based violations. 177 remain unresolved.
What to know about Lake Charles's water
Lake Charles ranks #254 out of 309 cities in Louisiana for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Lake Charles relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.18 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
The system has seen 40 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Lake Charles, LA water safe to drink?
Lake Charles's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43.9/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 17 water systems serve approximately 120,200 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Lake Charles
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Lake Charles's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43.9/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Lake Charles's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
Violation history
Lake Charles's water system has 369 total violations on record, including 63 health-based violations. 177 remain unresolved. 40 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Lake Charles's water come from?
Lake Charles's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 17 water systems serving approximately 120,200 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Calcasieu River At Hwy 171 At Moss Bluff (river), West Fork Calcasieu River At Moss Bluff (river), Calcasieu River At I-10 At Lake Charles (river).
What Lake Charles residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Lake Charles'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.
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 Lake Charles
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Lake Charles, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 1,605,667 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
CITGO PETROLEUM CORP SULPHUR, LA70665 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 996,256 | 7.0 mi |
PHILLIPS 66 LAKE CHARLES REFINERY WESTLAKE, LA70669 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 441,570 | 5.1 mi |
LOUISIANA PIGMENT CO LP WESTLAKE, LA70669 | Manganese compounds | 101,379 | 5.8 mi |
WESTLAKE US 2 LLC WESTLAKE, LA70669 | Ammonia | 36,742 | 5.3 mi |
W R GRACE & CO-CONN GRACE SULPHUR, LA70665 | Ammonia | 29,720 | 8.2 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Lake Charles
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.
- GULF STATE UTILITIES NORTH RYAN STREET2.9 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtCalcasieu Parish is currently in D2 (severe 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.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Lake Charles'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. | 0.8 | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | 35.700 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 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. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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 Lake Charles compares by contaminant
Explore where Lake Charles ranks among all Louisiana cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Lake Charles's water comes from
Lake Charles's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 120,200 people through 17 water systems.
Water bodies near Lake Charles
Lake Charles is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Lake Charles
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| CITY OF LAKE CHARLES WATER SYSTEM | LA1019029 | 79,500 | GW |
| CALCASIEU PARISH WW DISTRICT NO 1 | LA1019051 | 20,837 | GW |
| CALCASIEU PARISH WW DISTRICT 8 | LA1019118 | 6,834 | GW |
| CALCASIEU PARISH WW DISTRICT NO 5 | LA1019084 | 5,388 | GW |
| GULF STREAM MANOR WATER SYSTEM | LA1019123 | 2,130 | GW |
| CALCASIEU PARISH WW 12 WARD 3 | LA1019126 | 2,130 | GW |
| QUAIL RIDGE ESTATES WATER SYSTEM | LA1019105 | 1,119 | GW |
| MOSSVILLE WW DISTRICT NO 2 | LA1019052 | 660 | GWP |
| GARDEN HEIGHTS WATER SYSTEM | LA1019018 | 465 | GW |
| OAK MEADOWS SUBDIVISION WATER SYSTEM | LA1019076 | 318 | GW |
| OAK PINE MOBILE HOME PARK WATER SYSTEM | LA1019112 | 240 | GW |
| C K B TRAILER PARK WATER SYSTEM | LA1019059 | 150 | GW |
| CLEARVIEW MOBILE HOME PARK | LA1019122 | 141 | GW |
| EAST PARK SUBDIVISION WATER SYSTEM | LA1019079 | 102 | GW |
| CORBINA TRAILER PARK WATER SYSTEM | LA1019124 | 69 | GW |
| K & P MH & RV PARK WATER SYSTEM | LA1019127 | 66 | GW |
| COUNTRY LIVING TRAILER PARK WATER SYSTEM | LA1019102 | 51 | GW |
How Lake Charles compares
Full Louisiana rankings →Lake Charles's score of 43.9/100 is below the average of 53/100 among major Louisiana cities. It outscores 6 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Louisiana rankings →About Lake Charles, LA
Wikipedia →Lake Charles is the fifth-most populous city in the U.S. state of Louisiana, and the parish seat of Calcasieu Parish, located on the namesake lake, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River. Founded in 1861 in Calcasieu Parish, it is a major industrial, cultural, and educational center in the southwest region of Louisiana. As of the 2020 U.S. census, Lake Charles's population was 84,872.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Lake Charles's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Calcasieu Parish
Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Charles, LA tap water safe to drink?
Lake Charles's water quality earned a grade of F (43.9/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #254 out of 309 cities tested in Louisiana.
What contaminants are in Lake Charles's water?
Lead was measured at 0.8 ppb (90th percentile). 1 PFAS compound was detected. 369 violations are on record.
How is Lake Charles'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 Lake Charles?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Lake Charles's water come from?
Lake Charles's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 17 water systems serving approximately 120,200 residents.
What health violations has Lake Charles's water system had?
Lake Charles has 63 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 177 violations remain unresolved.
Is Lake Charles's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Lake Charles 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 369 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.
How does Lake Charles's water compare to other cities?
Lake Charles ranks #254 out of 309 cities in Louisiana (better than 18% of state cities) and #14502 out of 15744 cities nationally (8th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.