C57/100
Portland Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,010 residents · Connecticut
What's In Portland's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (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: December 30, 2022 – February 10, 2023Rule: Ground Water 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
PORTLAND WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
5,010
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CT1130011
Frequently Asked Questions About Portland Water
Is Portland tap water safe to drink?
Portland, Connecticut tap water receives a grade of C (57/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 15 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Portland's water?
34 contaminants were tested in Portland's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Portland have any water quality violations?
Yes, Portland has 15 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Portland?
Portland 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Portland's tap water come from?
Portland's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by PORTLAND WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 5,010 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Portland'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. Portland'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 Portland's water compare to other cities in Connecticut?
Portland's water quality score of 57/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Connecticut state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Portland's water quality?
If you have concerns about Portland'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 (PORTLAND WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.