F16/100
Melrose Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 29,357 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Melrose'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) | 0.010 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed to meet Level 1 treatment technique trigger
When: November 1, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
MELROSE WATER DIVISION (MWRA)
Population Served
29,357
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MA3178000
Frequently Asked Questions About Melrose Water
Is Melrose tap water safe to drink?
Melrose, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (16/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 17 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Melrose's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Melrose'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 Melrose have any water quality violations?
Yes, Melrose has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include TT, MCL, Other. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Melrose?
Melrose 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 Melrose's tap water come from?
Melrose's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by MELROSE WATER DIVISION (MWRA). The system serves approximately 29,357 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Melrose'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. Melrose'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 Melrose's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Melrose's water quality score of 16/100 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 Melrose's water quality?
If you have concerns about Melrose'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 (MELROSE WATER DIVISION (MWRA)) 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.