F0/100
Taos Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,528 residents · New Mexico
What's In Taos'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) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2019.
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
TAOS MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
5,528
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NM3507529
Frequently Asked Questions About Taos Water
Is Taos tap water safe to drink?
Taos, New Mexico tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 135 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Taos's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Taos'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 Taos have any water quality violations?
Yes, Taos has 135 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2019. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Taos?
Taos 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 Taos's tap water come from?
Taos's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by TAOS MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 5,528 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Taos'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. Taos'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 Taos's water compare to other cities in New Mexico?
Taos's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Mexico state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Taos's water quality?
If you have concerns about Taos'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 (TAOS MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM) 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.