C54/100
Portland Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 748,643 residents · Oregon
What's In Portland's Tap Water?
77
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.80 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2022 – July 31, 2022Rule: Total Coliform 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
PALATINE HILL WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
1,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OR4100653
PORTLAND WATER BUREAU
Population Served
666,200
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OR4100657
WEST SLOPE WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
11,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OR4100660
RALEIGH WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
4,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OR4100667
ROCKWOOD PUD
Population Served
65,443
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OR4100668
Frequently Asked Questions About Portland Water
Is Portland tap water safe to drink?
Portland, Oregon tap water receives a grade of C (54/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 136 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Portland's water?
Of the 80 contaminants tested in Portland'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 Portland have any water quality violations?
Yes, Portland has 136 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MON, MR. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Portland?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Portland 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 Portland's tap water come from?
Portland's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by PALATINE HILL WATER DISTRICT and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 748,643 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Portland'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. Portland'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 Portland's water compare to other cities in Oregon?
Portland's water quality score of 54/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Oregon state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Portland's water quality?
If you have concerns about Portland'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 (PALATINE HILL WATER DISTRICT) 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.