C57/100
Port Byron Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,678 residents · Illinois
What's In Port Byron's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.73 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
3
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
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – March 3, 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
PORT BYRON
Population Served
1,678
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL1610550
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Byron Water
Is Port Byron tap water safe to drink?
Port Byron, Illinois tap water receives a grade of C (57/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 20 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Port Byron's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Port Byron's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Port Byron have any water quality violations?
Yes, Port Byron has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, Other, MR. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Port Byron?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Port Byron is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Port Byron's tap water come from?
Port Byron's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by PORT BYRON. The system serves approximately 1,678 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Port Byron'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. Port Byron'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 Port Byron's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Port Byron's water quality score of 57/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Port Byron's water quality?
If you have concerns about Port Byron'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 (PORT BYRON) 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.