F0/100
Payson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 22,591 residents · Arizona
What's In Payson's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2025 – September 5, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: February 12, 2023 – May 23, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2021 – August 17, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
Tonto Apache
Population Served
2,580
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
090400343
TOWN OF STAR VALLEY WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
1,157
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0404037
TONTO BASIN WATER - LR GARDENS WEST
Population Served
1,172
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0404047
PAYSON TOWN OF
Population Served
17,682
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0404032
Frequently Asked Questions About Payson Water
Is Payson tap water safe to drink?
Payson, Arizona tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 2127 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Payson's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Payson's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Payson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Payson has 2127 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, RPT. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Payson?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Payson is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Payson's tap water come from?
Payson's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by Tonto Apache and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 22,591 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Payson's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Payson's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Payson's water compare to other cities in Arizona?
Payson's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Arizona state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Payson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Payson's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (Tonto Apache) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.