F0/100
Sudbury Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 18,416 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Sudbury's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 400.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2022Rule: 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
SUDBURY WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
18,416
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MA3288000
Frequently Asked Questions About Sudbury Water
Is Sudbury tap water safe to drink?
Sudbury, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 195 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Sudbury's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Sudbury's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Sudbury have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sudbury has 195 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR, MCL. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sudbury?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Sudbury 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 Sudbury's tap water come from?
Sudbury's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SUDBURY WATER DISTRICT. The system serves approximately 18,416 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Sudbury'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. Sudbury'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 Sudbury's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Sudbury'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 Sudbury's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sudbury'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 (SUDBURY WATER DISTRICT) 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.