C40/100
Vandalia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,116 residents · Illinois
What's In Vandalia's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
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
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 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 8, 2024 – April 24, 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
VANDALIA
Population Served
7,616
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL0510350
VANDALIA CORRECTIONAL CENTER
Population Served
1,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0515500
Frequently Asked Questions About Vandalia Water
Is Vandalia tap water safe to drink?
Vandalia, Illinois tap water receives a grade of C (40/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 61 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Vandalia's water?
Of the 34 contaminants tested in Vandalia'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 Vandalia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Vandalia has 61 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MR, MCL. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Vandalia?
Vandalia 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 Vandalia's tap water come from?
Vandalia's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by VANDALIA and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 9,116 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Vandalia'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. Vandalia'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 Vandalia's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Vandalia's water quality score of 40/100 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 Vandalia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Vandalia'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 (VANDALIA) 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.