F13/100
Preston Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,894 residents · Idaho
What's In Preston's Tap Water?
31
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
4
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: 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
FAIRVIEW WATER DIST
Population Served
1,300
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
ID6210006
PRESTON CITY OF
Population Served
5,591
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
ID6210014
WILLARD CITY WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
2,036
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
UTAH02024
RICHMOND CITY WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
2,967
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
UTAH03018
Frequently Asked Questions About Preston Water
Is Preston tap water safe to drink?
Preston, Idaho tap water receives a grade of F (13/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 384 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Preston's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Preston's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), Copper (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Preston have any water quality violations?
Yes, Preston has 384 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Preston?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Preston is recommended. 2 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 Preston's tap water come from?
Preston's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by FAIRVIEW WATER DIST and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 11,894 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Preston'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. Preston'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 Preston's water compare to other cities in Idaho?
Preston's water quality score of 13/100 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 Preston's water quality?
If you have concerns about Preston'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 (FAIRVIEW WATER DIST) 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.