A81/100
Lancaster Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 58,775 residents · Ohio
What's In Lancaster's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 637.00 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2018.
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
LANCASTER CITY PWS
Population Served
40,400
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH2301012
ODRC-SOUTHEASTERN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE
Population Served
1,461
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH2301412
FAIRFIELD COUNTY UTILITIES PWS
Population Served
15,486
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH2301912
LITTLE WALNUT WATER TREATMENT FACILITY
Population Served
1,428
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH2303212
Frequently Asked Questions About Lancaster Water
Is Lancaster tap water safe to drink?
Lancaster, Ohio tap water receives a grade of A (81/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 67 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Lancaster's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Lancaster's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Lancaster have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lancaster has 27 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include Other, MR, TT. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lancaster?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lancaster is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Lancaster's tap water come from?
Lancaster's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by LANCASTER CITY PWS and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 58,775 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Lancaster'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. Lancaster'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 Lancaster's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Lancaster's water quality score of 81/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Lancaster among the better-performing water systems in Ohio. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lancaster's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lancaster'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 (LANCASTER CITY PWS) 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.