B64/100
Lima Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 65,619 residents · Ohio
What's In Lima's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 52.30 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2022 – March 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
LIMA CITY
Population Served
65,619
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OH0200811
Frequently Asked Questions About Lima Water
Is Lima tap water safe to drink?
Lima, Ohio tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 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 Lima's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Lima's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Lima have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lima has 16 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, Other, TT. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lima?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Lima 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 Lima's tap water come from?
Lima's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LIMA CITY. The system serves approximately 65,619 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lima'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. Lima'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 Lima's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Lima's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lima's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lima'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 (LIMA CITY) 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.