Fluoride

How much fluoride is
in OMWD’s water?

OMWD targets a fluoridation level of 0.7 parts per million, or 0.7 mg/L, as prescribed by the US Department of Health and Human Services. In 2015, the state decreased the target from 0.8mg/L. It’s also noteworthy that some fluoride occurs naturally, with levels ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 mg/L in OMWD’s water supply. The level of fluoride found in OMWD’s water is published annually in our Consumer Confidence Report.

The California Department of Public Health has determined that the concentration of fluoride in community drinking water, maintained at 0.7 parts per million, represents no health hazards.

In September 2024, a federal court (Food and Water Watch, Inc. v US Environmental Protection Agency) ordered the EPA to start a rulemaking process regarding fluoridation. It is still uncertain what actions the EPA will take next. While the court mandated that the EPA begin rulemaking, it did not clarify an expected outcome. Because this was left open, the EPA might gather more information before setting new standards for fluoride levels.

Why is OMWD adding
fluoride to its water?

OMWD fluoridates its water to comply with state law. Health & Safety Code §§116409-116415 requires public water systems, such as OMWD, to fluoridate to promote dental health.

What if I do not want
to drink fluoridated water?

Customers concerned about fluoride in their drinking water may consider the installation of a home water filter using reverse osmosis or distillation technology.

Customers may also choose to drink bottled water that has been treated through reverse osmosis or distillation. Not all brands of bottled water are treated through these processes, and many may contain fluoride. Customers are advised to call the consumer information number on the bottle’s label to determine the level of fluoride.

What is OMWD ‘s Board of Directors considering at its January 2026 meeting?

OMWD’s Board of Directors will consider whether to submit a request to the State of California for an exemption from the requirement to add fluoride to OMWD’s water.

If the board decides to submit the exemption request, California’s State Water Resources Control Board will review the request and decide to either approve or deny the exemption. If the exemption is approved, OMWD could discontinue adding fluoride to the water that it serves.

If OMWD’s board chooses not to pursue the exemption, or if it chooses to pursue the exemption but is denied by the SWRCB, OMWD will continue fluoridating.

Why is OMWD’s Board of Directors considering an exemption request now?

The cost to OMWD for fluoridation is nearly $160,000 per year. Due to a lack of outside funding, OMWD must use ratepayer funds to fluoridate. Furthermore, sourcing fluoride has grown difficult because of supply chain vulnerabilities, making it challenging to manage price fluctuations and supply disruptions.

Given large wholesale rate increases that have been imposed in recent years by the San Diego County Water Authority, OMWD is exploring all angles to reduce costs to its ratepayers.

When should I submit comments to OMWD’s Board of Directors?

OMWD is accepting public comments through January 12. All comments received will be compiled and provided to the Board of Directors for consideration. Public comments may be submitted by mail to OMWD, “Attn: Fluoride,” 1966 Olivenhain Road, Encinitas, CA 92024. Comments may also be submitted by sending us a message.

Comments may also be made in person at the January 21, 2026 meeting.