Pinellas County, Florida: drinking water report. Pinellas County – St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding communities on the peninsula between Tampa
Pinellas County – St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding communities on the peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico – serves about 960,000 residents in one of the most densely populated counties in Florida. The county does not have sufficient local water sources and depends on Tampa Bay Water's regional system for the majority of its supply, drawing from the Hillsborough River, the Alafia River, the Tampa Bypass Canal, groundwater, and the regional desalination plant.
Pinellas County's dependence on imported regional water means its quality mirrors the Tampa Bay Water blend. Seasonal shifts in the blend affect what arrives at taps – during dry periods, more groundwater and desalinated water enter the mix, while wet periods bring more surface water with higher organic content and corresponding disinfection byproducts.
UCMR5 data shows PFAS detections in county water systems. According to the Florida DEP, four public water systems in Pinellas County reported PFAS above detection thresholds. The county's urban density and extensive development mean stormwater runoff contributes to surface water contamination across the regional watershed.
Because Pinellas County receives a blended regional supply, quality shifts with the season and the regional demand picture. There is less variation by neighborhood than in counties with fragmented systems.
Check your water for current data specific to your area. A carbon block or reverse osmosis filter can improve consistency regardless of seasonal blend shifts. Our water filter guide covers effective options. Pull your detailed report, and visit our Florida page for statewide context.