C42/100
Prospect Heights Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,280 residents · Illinois
What's In Prospect Heights'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) | 1.88 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
PROSPECT HEIGHTS
Population Served
2,280
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0312530
Frequently Asked Questions About Prospect Heights Water
Is Prospect Heights tap water safe to drink?
Prospect Heights, Illinois tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 11 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Prospect Heights's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Prospect Heights'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 Prospect Heights have any water quality violations?
Yes, Prospect Heights has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, TT. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Prospect Heights?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Prospect Heights 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 Prospect Heights's tap water come from?
Prospect Heights's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by PROSPECT HEIGHTS. The system serves approximately 2,280 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Prospect Heights'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. Prospect Heights'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 Prospect Heights's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Prospect Heights's water quality score of 42/100 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 Prospect Heights's water quality?
If you have concerns about Prospect Heights'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 (PROSPECT HEIGHTS) 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.