C56/100
Rock Island Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 46,818 residents · Illinois
What's In Rock Island'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) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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 – March 7, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
ROCK ISLAND
Population Served
39,018
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL1610650
ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, US ARMY
Population Served
7,800
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL1615387
Frequently Asked Questions About Rock Island Water
Is Rock Island tap water safe to drink?
Rock Island, Illinois tap water receives a grade of C (56/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 56 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Rock Island's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Rock Island's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, 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 Rock Island have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rock Island has 56 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rock Island?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Rock Island 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 Rock Island's tap water come from?
Rock Island's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ROCK ISLAND and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 46,818 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Rock Island'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. Rock Island'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 Rock Island's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Rock Island's water quality score of 56/100 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 Rock Island's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rock Island'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 (ROCK ISLAND) 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.