What the city does about iron
North Miami's 2025 report explains that at the Winson plant, sodium hypochlorite and lime are added to destroy bacteria and remove minerals such as iron, and that removing iron is critical because it prevents staining of plumbing fixtures and sinks. Anthracite coal filters then remove remaining fine particles. That is why persistent iron staining from city water is unusual.
Brown water from the tap
The city's FAQ says brown or dark red cold water is usually caused by planned or unplanned work on the distribution system that shifts calcium carbonate sediment in the pipes. It says the water may look unpleasant but is not harmful, and can be cleared by running the first cold tap, usually in the kitchen, until it clears. If it does not clear, call the Winson Water Plant at 305-953-2854. Avoid running hot water or laundry until it clears, so sediment does not settle in the water heater or on clothes.
Orange stains outdoors
| What you see | Likely source |
|---|---|
| Orange arcs on walls, fences, pavers | Iron in irrigation well water |
| Stains in toilets and tubs, on a well | Iron in a private well |
| Rust at one old fixture | Corroding galvanized or steel pipe nearby |
Shallow groundwater can carry dissolved iron that oxidizes into orange deposits wherever it dries. Miami-Dade's year-round watering restrictions apply to private wells too: two days a week by address, outside 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fixing irrigation stains
- Iron filtration sized to the pump.
- Oxidation plus filtration for higher iron.
- Aim heads at the lawn, not walls and screens.
- Clean old stains with a rust remover made for the surface, after the water is fixed.
For a drinking well, see well water treatment.
Old plumbing
If rust shows up at one fixture, the pipe near it may be the cause, which is a plumber's job. The city's lead page notes that lead plumbing was common until the mid-1950s and was banned in Florida in 1989, and the city is asking residents to identify their service line material. A test plus a plumber's look answers both questions.
Get it tested
Jorge tests tap and sprinkler water for iron and explains what is causing the stain. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.northmiamifl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23256/Water-Quality-Report-2025-PDF
https://northmiamifl.gov/m/faq?cat=22
https://www.northmiamifl.gov/1347/Lead-and-Copper-Rules-Revision-Project
https://www.miamidade.gov/global/water/conservation/outdoor-water-restrictions.page
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist