A88/100
Garden City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 27,625 residents · Michigan
What's In Garden City's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.018 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify 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
GARDEN CITY
Population Served
27,625
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0002550
Frequently Asked Questions About Garden City Water
Is Garden City tap water safe to drink?
Garden City, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (88/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 1 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 Garden City's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Garden City's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Garden City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Garden City has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Garden City?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Garden City 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 Garden City's tap water come from?
Garden City's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by GARDEN CITY. The system serves approximately 27,625 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Garden City'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. Garden City'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 Garden City's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Garden City's water quality score of 88/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Garden City 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 Garden City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Garden City'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 (GARDEN CITY) 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.