F0/100
Sterling Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,754 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Sterling's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.008 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Consumer confidence report — late or incomplete delivery
When: February 17, 2024 – December 3, 2024Rule: 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
STERLING WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
6,754
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MA2282000
Frequently Asked Questions About Sterling Water
Is Sterling tap water safe to drink?
Sterling, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 108 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Sterling's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Sterling's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, 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 Sterling have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sterling has 108 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, MR, Other. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sterling?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Sterling 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 Sterling's tap water come from?
Sterling's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by STERLING WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 6,754 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Sterling'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. Sterling'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 Sterling's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Sterling'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 Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Sterling's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sterling'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 (STERLING WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.