A98/100
Howell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,914 residents · Michigan
What's In Howell's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
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: October 1, 2023 – September 10, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
HOWELL, CITY OF
Population Served
9,914
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003250
Frequently Asked Questions About Howell Water
Is Howell tap water safe to drink?
Howell, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (98/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Howell's water?
31 contaminants were tested in Howell's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Howell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Howell has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Howell?
Howell 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Howell's tap water come from?
Howell's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by HOWELL, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 9,914 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Howell'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. Howell'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 Howell's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Howell's water quality score of 98/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Howell 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 Howell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Howell'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 (HOWELL, 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.