A81/100
Lake Forest Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 19,642 residents · Illinois
What's In Lake Forest'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) | 0.008 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
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, 2023 – February 28, 2024Rule: Ground Water 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
LAKE FOREST
Population Served
19,642
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL0970800
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Forest Water
Is Lake Forest tap water safe to drink?
Lake Forest, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (81/100), 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 Lake Forest's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Lake Forest'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 Lake Forest have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lake Forest has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest's tap water come from?
Lake Forest's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LAKE FOREST. The system serves approximately 19,642 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lake Forest'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. Lake Forest'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 Lake Forest's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Lake Forest's water quality score of 81/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lake Forest'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 (LAKE FOREST) 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.