A91/100
Tawas City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,642 residents · Michigan
What's In Tawas City's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: June 1, 2022 – August 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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: June 1, 2022 – August 31, 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
SIMS-WHITNEY UTILITIES AUTH.
Population Served
5,815
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0006073
TAWAS CITY, CITY OF
Population Served
1,827
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MI0006540
Frequently Asked Questions About Tawas City Water
Is Tawas City tap water safe to drink?
Tawas City, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (91/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Tawas City's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Tawas City'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 Tawas City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tawas City has 7 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR, TT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tawas City?
Tawas City 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 Tawas City's tap water come from?
Tawas City's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by SIMS-WHITNEY UTILITIES AUTH. and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 7,642 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tawas 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. Tawas 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 Tawas City's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Tawas City's water quality score of 91/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Tawas 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 Tawas City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tawas 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 (SIMS-WHITNEY UTILITIES AUTH.) 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.