F12/100
Boise Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 279,491 residents · Idaho
What's In Boise's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 280.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2019.
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
VEOLIA WATER IDAHO
Population Served
264,978
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
ID4010016
CAPITOL WATER CORP
Population Served
9,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
ID4010022
IDOC SBX COMPLEX
Population Served
3,309
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
ID4010141
IDOC IDAHO STATE CORRECTIONAL CENTER
Population Served
2,204
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
ID4010240
Frequently Asked Questions About Boise Water
Is Boise tap water safe to drink?
Boise, Idaho tap water receives a grade of F (12/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 332 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Boise's water?
Of the 80 contaminants tested in Boise's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Boise have any water quality violations?
Yes, Boise has 332 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, TT, MCL. 21 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Boise?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Boise 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 Boise's tap water come from?
Boise's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by VEOLIA WATER IDAHO and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 279,491 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Boise'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. Boise'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 Boise's water compare to other cities in Idaho?
Boise's water quality score of 12/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Idaho state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Boise's water quality?
If you have concerns about Boise'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 (VEOLIA WATER IDAHO) 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.