C41/100
Stayton Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,400 residents · Oregon
What's In Stayton's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.58 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
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: July 1, 2024 – September 2, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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, 2024 – September 2, 2024Rule: 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
CITY OF STAYTON
Population Served
8,400
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OR4100843
Frequently Asked Questions About Stayton Water
Is Stayton tap water safe to drink?
Stayton, Oregon tap water receives a grade of C (41/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 40 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Stayton's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Stayton'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 Stayton have any water quality violations?
Yes, Stayton has 40 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, TT. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Stayton?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Stayton 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 Stayton's tap water come from?
Stayton's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CITY OF STAYTON. The system serves approximately 8,400 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Stayton'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. Stayton'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 Stayton's water compare to other cities in Oregon?
Stayton's water quality score of 41/100 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 Stayton's water quality?
If you have concerns about Stayton'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 (CITY OF STAYTON) 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.