TapSafetyReport
B64/100

Hillsboro Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)

Serving 6,557 residents · Illinois

What's In Hillsboro's Tap Water?

31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals

EPA Violation History

5

Violations (last 5yr)

3

Unresolved

0

Health-Related

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: July 1, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved

Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Enforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved

Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Enforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved

Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Enforcement: 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

HILLSBORO
Population Served

4,402

Water Source

Surface Water

System ID

IL1350300

GRAHAM CORRECTIONAL SITE
Population Served

2,155

Water Source

Purchased Surface Water

System ID

IL1355100

Frequently Asked Questions About Hillsboro Water

Is Hillsboro tap water safe to drink?

Hillsboro, Illinois tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 31 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 Hillsboro's water?

31 contaminants were tested in Hillsboro's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.

Does Hillsboro have any water quality violations?

Yes, Hillsboro has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, TT. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.

Do I need a water filter in Hillsboro?

Hillsboro 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 Hillsboro's tap water come from?

Hillsboro's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by HILLSBORO and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 6,557 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

How often is Hillsboro'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. Hillsboro'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 Hillsboro's water compare to other cities in Illinois?

Hillsboro's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.

What should I do if I'm concerned about Hillsboro's water quality?

If you have concerns about Hillsboro'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 (HILLSBORO) 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.

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