Is Llano, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B-, with 6 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
74.1/100
waterverge.com Llano, CA — Water Quality Report
Llano's drinking water received a grade of B- (74.1 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 845 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 16 violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 6 remain unresolved.
What to know about Llano's water
Llano ranks #467 out of 694 cities in California for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Llano 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.
As a small community water system, Llano may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 7 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Llano, CA water safe to drink?
Llano's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (74.1/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 845 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Llano
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Llano's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (74.1/100).
3 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3592). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4683). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Llano's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Llano's water system has 16 total violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 6 remain unresolved. 7 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Los Angeles County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1980. 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 Big Rock C Nr Valyermo.
Where does Llano's water come from?
Llano's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 845 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Big Rock C Nr Valyermo (river).
What Llano residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Llano'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.
Llano'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 ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Flood & disaster history
Los Angeles County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1980. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Llano compares by contaminant
Explore where Llano ranks among all California cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Llano's water comes from
Llano'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 private ownership and serves approximately 845 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Llano
Llano is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Llano
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLANO DEL RIO WATER COMPANY | CA1900849 | 545 | GW |
| LLANO MUTUAL WATER COMPANY | CA1900303 | 245 | GWP |
| LITTLE BALDY WATER | CA1900158 | 55 | GW |
How Llano compares
Full California rankings →Llano's score of 74.1/100 is above the average of 57/100 among major California cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View California rankings →Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Llano's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Los Angeles
Frequently asked questions
Is Llano, CA tap water safe to drink?
Llano's water quality earned a grade of B- (74.1/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #467 out of 694 cities tested in California.
What contaminants are in Llano's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 16 violations are on record.
How is Llano'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 Llano?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Llano's water come from?
Llano's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 845 residents.
What health violations has Llano's water system had?
Llano has 3 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 6 violations remain unresolved.
Is Llano's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Llano 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 16 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 Llano's water compare to other cities?
Llano ranks #467 out of 694 cities in California (better than 33% of state cities) and #9938 out of 15744 cities nationally (37th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.