F0/100
Sierra Vista Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 54,575 residents · Arizona
What's In Sierra Vista'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) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2023 – October 24, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
BELLA VISTA WATER SOUTH
Population Served
2,178
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0402007
BELLA VISTA CITY WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
20,045
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0402010
SOUTHERN SUNRISE WC COCHISE HORSESHOE
Population Served
1,588
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0402011
PUEBLO DEL SOL WATER COMPANY
Population Served
12,804
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0402044
LIBERTY WATER RIO RICO
Population Served
17,960
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0412011
Frequently Asked Questions About Sierra Vista Water
Is Sierra Vista tap water safe to drink?
Sierra Vista, Arizona tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 3859 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Sierra Vista's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Sierra Vista's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), 1,4-dioxane. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Sierra Vista have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sierra Vista has 3859 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, RPT, TT. 18 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sierra Vista?
Sierra Vista water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Sierra Vista's tap water come from?
Sierra Vista's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BELLA VISTA WATER SOUTH and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 54,575 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Sierra Vista'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. Sierra Vista'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 Sierra Vista's water compare to other cities in Arizona?
Sierra Vista'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 Sierra Vista's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sierra Vista'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 (BELLA VISTA WATER SOUTH) 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.