A92/100
Billings Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 131,900 residents · Montana
What's In Billings's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1998.
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
BILLINGS CITY OF
Population Served
114,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MT0000153
CO WATER DIST OF BILLINGS HEIGHTS
Population Served
12,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MT0000155
LOCKWOOD WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT
Population Served
5,900
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MT0000156
Frequently Asked Questions About Billings Water
Is Billings tap water safe to drink?
Billings, Montana tap water receives a grade of A (92/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 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 Billings's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Billings'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 Billings have any water quality violations?
Yes, Billings has 13 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Billings?
Billings 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 Billings's tap water come from?
Billings's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by BILLINGS CITY OF and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 131,900 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Billings'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. Billings'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 Billings's water compare to other cities in Montana?
Billings's water quality score of 92/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Billings among the better-performing water systems in Montana. Visit our Montana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Billings's water quality?
If you have concerns about Billings'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 (BILLINGS 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.