A93/100
Saginaw Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 122,013 residents · Michigan
What's In Saginaw's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.009 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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: February 1, 2022 – April 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 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
BUENA VISTA TOWNSHIP
Population Served
8,676
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0000980
CARROLLTON TOWNSHIP
Population Served
6,103
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0001160
JAMES TOWNSHIP
Population Served
2,023
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0003475
KOCHVILLE TOWNSHIP
Population Served
4,695
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0003667
SAGINAW, CITY OF
Population Served
44,058
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0005850
SAGINAW CHARTER TOWNSHIP
Population Served
40,840
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0005860
SPAULDING TOWNSHIP
Population Served
2,153
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0006210
THOMAS TOWNSHIP
Population Served
11,931
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0006580
ZILWAUKEE, CITY OF
Population Served
1,534
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0007280
Frequently Asked Questions About Saginaw Water
Is Saginaw tap water safe to drink?
Saginaw, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (93/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 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 Saginaw's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Saginaw'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 Saginaw have any water quality violations?
Yes, Saginaw has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Saginaw?
Saginaw 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 Saginaw's tap water come from?
Saginaw's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BUENA VISTA TOWNSHIP and 8 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 122,013 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Saginaw'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. Saginaw'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 Saginaw's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Saginaw's water quality score of 93/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Saginaw 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 Saginaw's water quality?
If you have concerns about Saginaw'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 (BUENA VISTA TOWNSHIP) 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.