A90/100
Detroit Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 633,218 residents · Michigan
What's In Detroit's Tap Water?
76
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
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2020.
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
DETROIT CITY OF
Population Served
633,218
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0001800
Frequently Asked Questions About Detroit Water
Is Detroit tap water safe to drink?
Detroit, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 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 Detroit's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Detroit'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 Detroit have any water quality violations?
Yes, Detroit has 7 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2020. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Detroit?
Detroit 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 Detroit's tap water come from?
Detroit's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by DETROIT CITY OF. The system serves approximately 633,218 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Detroit'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. Detroit'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 Detroit's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Detroit's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Detroit among the better-performing water systems in Michigan. Visit our Michigan state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Detroit's water quality?
If you have concerns about Detroit'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 (DETROIT 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.