B61/100
Independence Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,464 residents · Kansas
What's In Independence'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) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2023 – May 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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, 2023 – January 31, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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: October 1, 2022 – October 31, 2022Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – January 31, 2022Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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
INDEPENDENCE, CITY OF
Population Served
8,464
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
KS2012508
Frequently Asked Questions About Independence Water
Is Independence tap water safe to drink?
Independence, Kansas tap water receives a grade of B (61/100), which is considered good. Out of 34 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 Independence's water?
Of the 34 contaminants tested in Independence'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 Independence have any water quality violations?
Yes, Independence has 12 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 6 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Independence?
Independence 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 Independence's tap water come from?
Independence's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by INDEPENDENCE, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 8,464 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Independence'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. Independence'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 Independence's water compare to other cities in Kansas?
Independence's water quality score of 61/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Kansas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Independence's water quality?
If you have concerns about Independence'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 (INDEPENDENCE, CITY OF) 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.