BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Boca Raton tap water may taste and smell a little different starting this weekend. The city’s Utility Services Department will temporarily switch its water disinfection process from chloramine to free chlorine from Sunday, Sept. 27, through Sunday, Oct. 11.
City officials call the change routine, describing it as an industry best practice and a precautionary step to keep water quality at its best. Customers may notice a slight chlorine taste or odor during the two-week period. The city says it’s temporary and the water is safe to drink.
One group needs to pay closer attention: people who use home kidney dialysis machines, tropical fish aquarium owners, and managers of stores and restaurants that keep fish or shellfish in holding tanks. Testing for and removing free chlorine works differently than it does for chloramine, and the city is urging anyone affected to get professional guidance.
Fire hydrant flushing will continue during the switch, so residents may see water running in streets and swales, lower water pressure in some areas, and slightly discolored tap water. The city says none of those temporary conditions pose a health risk. Questions can go to Utility Services at (561) 338-7310.
