Is Melbourne Beach, FL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D+ — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
50.8/100
waterverge.com Melbourne Beach, FL — Water Quality Report
Melbourne Beach's drinking water received a grade of D+ (50.8 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 3,529 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 2.8 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 164 violations on record, including 14 health-based violations. 44 remain unresolved.
What to know about Melbourne Beach's water
Melbourne Beach ranks #288 out of 388 cities in Florida for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Melbourne Beach 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.
The system has seen 27 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Melbourne Beach, FL water safe to drink?
Melbourne Beach's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D+ (50.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 3,529 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Melbourne Beach
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Melbourne Beach's water quality assessment. Grade: D+ (50.8/100).
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.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: E. COLI, Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Melbourne Beach's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Melbourne Beach's water system has 164 total violations on record, including 14 health-based violations. 44 remain unresolved. 27 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Brevard County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2017. 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 Eau Gallie Riv, Crane Creek, Turkey Creek.
Where does Melbourne Beach's water come from?
Melbourne Beach's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 5 water systems serving approximately 3,529 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Eau Gallie Riv (river), Crane Creek (river), Turkey Creek (stream).
What Melbourne Beach residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Melbourne Beach'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.
Melbourne Beach'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
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Melbourne Beach
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Melbourne Beach, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
ROCKWELL COLLINS MELBOURNE, FL32901 | — | — | 5.0 mi |
SYMETRICS INDUSTRIES LLC DBA EXTANT AEROSPACE MELBOURNE, FL32901 | — | — | 5.7 mi |
FAR RESEARCH INC. (DBA FAR CHEMICAL INC.) PALM BAY, FL32905 | — | — | 2.2 mi |
L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES INC. PALM BAY, FL32905 | — | — | 3.3 mi |
L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES INC. MALABAR, FL32950 | — | — | 5.8 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Melbourne Beach
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.
- HARRIS CORP PALM BAY PLANT3.6 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtBrevard County 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.
Flood & disaster history
Brevard County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2017. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Melbourne Beach'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. | 2.8 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.70 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.700 mg/L (2025)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Melbourne Beach compares by contaminant
Explore where Melbourne Beach ranks among all Florida cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Melbourne Beach's water comes from
Melbourne Beach'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 3,529 people through 5 water systems.
Water bodies near Melbourne Beach
Melbourne Beach is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Melbourne Beach
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOUTH BREVARD WATER CO-OP | FL3051311 | 1,537 | GW |
| SOUTH SHORES UTILITY ASSOCIATION | FL3054062 | 900 | GW |
| AQUARINA UTILITIES | FL3054060 | 750 | GW |
| LIGHTHOUSE COVE | FL3054058 | 207 | GW |
| WINGATE RESERVE SUBDIVISION | FL3054146 | 135 | GW |
How Melbourne Beach compares
Full Florida rankings →Melbourne Beach's score of 50.8/100 is on par with the average of 50/100 among major Florida cities. It outscores 6 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Florida rankings →About Melbourne Beach, FL
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Melbourne Beach's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Brevard
Frequently asked questions
Is Melbourne Beach, FL tap water safe to drink?
Melbourne Beach's water quality earned a grade of D+ (50.8/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #288 out of 388 cities tested in Florida.
What contaminants are in Melbourne Beach's water?
Lead was measured at 2.8 ppb (90th percentile). 164 violations are on record.
How is Melbourne Beach'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 Melbourne Beach?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Melbourne Beach's water come from?
Melbourne Beach's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 5 water systems serving approximately 3,529 residents.
What health violations has Melbourne Beach's water system had?
Melbourne Beach has 14 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in September 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 44 violations remain unresolved.
Is Melbourne Beach's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Melbourne Beach 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 164 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 Melbourne Beach's water compare to other cities?
Melbourne Beach ranks #288 out of 388 cities in Florida (better than 26% of state cities) and #12965 out of 15744 cities nationally (18th percentile). The grade of D+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.