A85/100
Washington Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 25,677 residents · Indiana
What's In Washington's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.013 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: September 5, 2025 – September 16, 2025Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – March 12, 2025Enforcement: 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
DAVIESS COUNTY RURAL WATER
Population Served
7,969
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
IN5214002
WASHINGTON WATER WORKS
Population Served
13,690
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IN5214007
PETERSBURG WATER COMPANY
Population Served
4,018
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IN5263002
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Water
Is Washington tap water safe to drink?
Washington, Indiana tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Washington's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Washington'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 Washington have any water quality violations?
Yes, Washington has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, Other, RPT. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Washington?
Washington 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 Washington's tap water come from?
Washington's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by DAVIESS COUNTY RURAL WATER and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 25,677 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Washington'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. Washington'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 Washington's water compare to other cities in Indiana?
Washington's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Washington among the better-performing water systems in Indiana. Visit our Indiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Washington's water quality?
If you have concerns about Washington'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 (DAVIESS COUNTY RURAL WATER) 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.