A92/100
Des Plaines Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 60,675 residents · Illinois
What's In Des Plaines's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.009 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
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: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
DES PLAINES
Population Served
60,675
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0310630
Frequently Asked Questions About Des Plaines Water
Is Des Plaines tap water safe to drink?
Des Plaines, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (92/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 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 Des Plaines's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Des Plaines'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 Des Plaines have any water quality violations?
Yes, Des Plaines has 5 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 Des Plaines?
Des Plaines 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 Des Plaines's tap water come from?
Des Plaines's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by DES PLAINES. The system serves approximately 60,675 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Des Plaines'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. Des Plaines'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 Des Plaines's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Des Plaines's water quality score of 92/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Des Plaines 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 Des Plaines's water quality?
If you have concerns about Des Plaines'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 (DES PLAINES) 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.