A96/100
Lincoln Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 21,664 residents · Rhode Island
What's In Lincoln's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
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: November 11, 2022 – November 29, 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
LINCOLN WATER COMMISSION
Population Served
21,664
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
RI1858423
Frequently Asked Questions About Lincoln Water
Is Lincoln tap water safe to drink?
Lincoln, Rhode Island tap water receives a grade of A (96/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Lincoln's water?
69 contaminants were tested in Lincoln's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Lincoln have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lincoln has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include RPT, MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Lincoln?
Lincoln water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Lincoln's tap water come from?
Lincoln's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by LINCOLN WATER COMMISSION. The system serves approximately 21,664 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lincoln'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. Lincoln'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 Lincoln's water compare to other cities in Rhode Island?
Lincoln's water quality score of 96/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Lincoln among the better-performing water systems in Rhode Island. Visit our Rhode Island state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lincoln's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lincoln'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 (LINCOLN WATER COMMISSION) 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.