A80/100
Paw Paw Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,362 residents · Michigan
What's In Paw Paw's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: December 14, 2022 – January 18, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2021 – September 20, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
PAW PAW
Population Served
3,362
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0005210
Frequently Asked Questions About Paw Paw Water
Is Paw Paw tap water safe to drink?
Paw Paw, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (80/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 51 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 Paw Paw's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Paw Paw'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 Paw Paw have any water quality violations?
Yes, Paw Paw has 9 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Paw Paw?
Paw Paw 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 Paw Paw's tap water come from?
Paw Paw's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by PAW PAW. The system serves approximately 3,362 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Paw Paw'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. Paw Paw'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 Paw Paw's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Paw Paw's water quality score of 80/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Paw Paw 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 Paw Paw's water quality?
If you have concerns about Paw Paw'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 (PAW PAW) 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.