F13/100
Dartmouth Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 24,630 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Dartmouth'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) | 0.007 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 2, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
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
DARTMOUTH WATER DIVISION
Population Served
24,630
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MA4072000
Frequently Asked Questions About Dartmouth Water
Is Dartmouth tap water safe to drink?
Dartmouth, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (13/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 20 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Dartmouth's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Dartmouth'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 Dartmouth have any water quality violations?
Yes, Dartmouth has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Dartmouth?
Dartmouth 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 Dartmouth's tap water come from?
Dartmouth's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by DARTMOUTH WATER DIVISION. The system serves approximately 24,630 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Dartmouth'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. Dartmouth'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 Dartmouth's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Dartmouth's water quality score of 13/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Dartmouth's water quality?
If you have concerns about Dartmouth'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 (DARTMOUTH WATER DIVISION) 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.