D23/100
Columbia City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,995 residents · Oregon
What's In Columbia City's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.50 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Consumer confidence report — inadequate or unavailable
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2025 – March 10, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – July 8, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – August 15, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Consumer confidence report — inadequate or unavailable
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – April 5, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
COLUMBIA CITY MUN WATERWORKS
Population Served
1,995
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OR4100203
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia City Water
Is Columbia City tap water safe to drink?
Columbia City, Oregon tap water receives a grade of D (23/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 57 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Columbia City's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Columbia City'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 Columbia City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Columbia City has 57 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, TT. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Columbia City?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Columbia City 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 Columbia City's tap water come from?
Columbia City's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COLUMBIA CITY MUN WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 1,995 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Columbia 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. Columbia 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 Columbia City's water compare to other cities in Oregon?
Columbia City's water quality score of 23/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Oregon state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Columbia City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Columbia 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 (COLUMBIA CITY MUN WATERWORKS) 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.