A91/100
Champaign Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 13,000 residents · Illinois
What's In Champaign's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 2, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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
U OF I-CHAMPAIGN
Population Served
13,000
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
IL0195500
Frequently Asked Questions About Champaign Water
Is Champaign tap water safe to drink?
Champaign, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (91/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Champaign's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Champaign'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 Champaign have any water quality violations?
Yes, Champaign has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Champaign?
Champaign 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 Champaign's tap water come from?
Champaign's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by U OF I-CHAMPAIGN. The system serves approximately 13,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Champaign'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. Champaign'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 Champaign's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Champaign's water quality score of 91/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Champaign 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 Champaign's water quality?
If you have concerns about Champaign'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 (U OF I-CHAMPAIGN) 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.