A90/100
Buffalo Grove Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 43,212 residents · Illinois
What's In Buffalo Grove's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: October 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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: October 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – January 12, 2024Enforcement: 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
BUFFALO GROVE
Population Served
43,212
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0314180
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Grove Water
Is Buffalo Grove tap water safe to drink?
Buffalo Grove, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Buffalo Grove's water?
69 contaminants were tested in Buffalo Grove's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Buffalo Grove have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buffalo Grove has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Buffalo Grove?
Buffalo Grove 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 Buffalo Grove's tap water come from?
Buffalo Grove's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BUFFALO GROVE. The system serves approximately 43,212 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buffalo Grove'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. Buffalo Grove'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 Buffalo Grove's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Buffalo Grove's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Buffalo Grove among the better-performing water systems in Illinois. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Buffalo Grove's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buffalo Grove'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 (BUFFALO GROVE) 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.