D28/100
Wakefield Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 28,517 residents · Rhode Island
What's In Wakefield's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 2 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 30, 2023 – March 28, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2023 – March 31, 2023Rule: 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
SOUTH KINGSTOWN-SOUTH SHORE
Population Served
6,170
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
RI1615623
VEOLIA WATER WAKEFIELD RHODE ISLAND INC
Population Served
22,347
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
RI1615624
Frequently Asked Questions About Wakefield Water
Is Wakefield tap water safe to drink?
Wakefield, Rhode Island tap water receives a grade of D (28/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 41 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Wakefield's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Wakefield's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Wakefield have any water quality violations?
Yes, Wakefield has 41 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, MON. 20 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Wakefield?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Wakefield is recommended. 2 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 Wakefield's tap water come from?
Wakefield's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SOUTH KINGSTOWN-SOUTH SHORE and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 28,517 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Wakefield'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. Wakefield'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 Wakefield's water compare to other cities in Rhode Island?
Wakefield's water quality score of 28/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Rhode Island state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Wakefield's water quality?
If you have concerns about Wakefield'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 (SOUTH KINGSTOWN-SOUTH SHORE) 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.