F0/100
South Bend Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 115,000 residents · Indiana
What's In South Bend's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2013.
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
SOUTH BEND WATER WORKS
Population Served
115,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IN5271014
Frequently Asked Questions About South Bend Water
Is South Bend tap water safe to drink?
South Bend, Indiana tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 119 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in South Bend's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in South Bend'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 South Bend have any water quality violations?
Yes, South Bend has 119 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2013. Violation types include MR, MCL, TT. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in South Bend?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in South Bend 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 South Bend's tap water come from?
South Bend's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SOUTH BEND WATER WORKS. The system serves approximately 115,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is South Bend'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. South Bend'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 South Bend's water compare to other cities in Indiana?
South Bend's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Indiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about South Bend's water quality?
If you have concerns about South Bend'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 (SOUTH BEND WATER WORKS) 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.