C49/100
Durango Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 41,024 residents · Colorado
What's In Durango's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2023 – May 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2023 – May 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
DURANGO CITY OF
Population Served
33,787
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CO0134150
LAKE DURANGO WA
Population Served
1,577
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CO0134530
PURGATORY MD
Population Served
1,364
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CO0134750
ANIMAS WC
Population Served
3,096
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CO0134020
EDGEMONT RANCH MD
Population Served
1,200
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CO0134200
Frequently Asked Questions About Durango Water
Is Durango tap water safe to drink?
Durango, Colorado tap water receives a grade of C (49/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 180 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Durango's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Durango's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Durango have any water quality violations?
Yes, Durango has 180 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 22 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Durango?
Durango 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Durango's tap water come from?
Durango's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by DURANGO CITY OF and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 41,024 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Durango'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. Durango'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 Durango's water compare to other cities in Colorado?
Durango's water quality score of 49/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Colorado state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Durango's water quality?
If you have concerns about Durango'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 (DURANGO CITY OF) 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.