A86/100
Sioux Falls Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 222,427 residents · South Dakota
What's In Sioux Falls's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 230.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2009.
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
SIOUX FALLS
Population Served
216,462
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
SD4600294
LINCOLN COUNTY RURAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
5,965
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
SD4600304
Frequently Asked Questions About Sioux Falls Water
Is Sioux Falls tap water safe to drink?
Sioux Falls, South Dakota tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 77 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Sioux Falls's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Sioux Falls's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 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 Sioux Falls have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sioux Falls has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, TT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sioux Falls?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Sioux Falls 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 Sioux Falls's tap water come from?
Sioux Falls's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by SIOUX FALLS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 222,427 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Sioux Falls'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. Sioux Falls'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 Sioux Falls's water compare to other cities in South Dakota?
Sioux Falls's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Sioux Falls among the better-performing water systems in South Dakota. Visit our South Dakota state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Sioux Falls's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sioux Falls'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 (SIOUX FALLS) 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.