City of Seal Beach

The City of Seal Beach water supply combines locally pumped groundwater from two wells operated by the City Water Department with imported water from northern California and the Colorado River, delivered through the Metropolitan Water District of Orange County (MWDOC).

Groundwater comes from a natural underground aquifer replenished by Santa Ana River water, local rainfall, imported water, and the Groundwater Replenishment Program. This groundwater basin spans 350 square miles beneath north and central Orange County, extending from Irvine to Los Angeles County and from Yorba Linda to the Pacific Ocean. Over 20 cities and water districts extract from this basin to supply their communities.

Orange County's Water Future
While Orange County has historically enjoyed abundant water supplies, increasing statewide demand requires greater conservation and efficiency. OCWD, MWDOC, and Seal Beach collaborate on innovative water management strategies including:

• Water recycling and reuse
• Habitat restoration projects
• Recharge facility construction
• Ocean and brackish water desalination
• Surface storage improvements
• Water efficiency programs

These efforts enhance long-term water reliability and quality throughout the county. A sustainable water future requires both developing new sources and protecting existing supplies.

Understanding Municipal Water Contaminants
Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves natural minerals and can pick up substances from human and animal activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants like viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Herbicides and pesticides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential use
• Inorganic contaminants such as salts and metals occurring naturally or from urban runoff, industrial discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Radioactive materials that occur naturally or result from energy production activities
• Organic chemical contaminants including synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems

The EPA and California Department of Drinking Water establish regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems, while FDA regulations set standards for bottled water. All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I find information on Oakside Cemetery?
2. How can I rent Alice Hall Community Center and Wickstrom Stage?
3. How can I submit a Public Records Request?
4. Does the city have an animal control department?
5. How can I request a copy of a city ordinance or City Council meeting minutes?
6. What is the process to get on the agenda to address City Council?
7. When are City Council meetings scheduled?
8. What are the requirements to run for City Council?
9. How and where can I register to vote?

Building Department and Inspections

1. How can I check my inspection results?
2. How can I get automated information about plan review?
3. Does someone need to be present during inspections?
4. What types of construction require permits?
5. How do I obtain a permit extension?
6. How are inspections scheduled for my project?
7. What is the typical arrival time for inspectors?
8. Which permits are needed for minor construction projects?

Permitting and Planning

1. Do I need a permit for installing a fence?
2. Do I need a permit for building a shed?
3. What documentation is required when applying for a permit?
4. What's the typical timeframe for permit approval?
5. What payment methods are accepted for permits?
6. Is a permit required for tree removal?
7. What are the property setback requirements for my lot?
8. Can I perform work on my own residence or must I hire a contractor?
9. Do I need to file a notice of commencement if I'm pulling the permit as a homeowner?
10. How are permit fees calculated?
11. Can I apply for permits online?

Parks and Recreation

1. How do I claim lost items from city parks?
2. Where can I find information about youth sports organizations and athletic facility usage?
3. What is the length of the fitness trail at Veteran's Memorial Park?
4. How long is the walking path around the lake at Zephyr Park?
5. Are dogs permitted in city parks?
6. What are the operating hours for city parks?
7. Do I need to reserve picnic pavilions in advance?
8. How do I rent the Alice Hall Community Center or Wickstrom stage at Zephyr Park?
9. Are bounce houses allowed in city parks?