C51/100
Cle Elum Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,011 residents · Washington
What's In Cle Elum's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.013 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (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 1, 2023 – November 30, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – July 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: 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
BASIN WATER SOURCES INC
Population Served
1,158
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5304600
CLE ELUM WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
2,213
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WA5313500
SUNCADIA RESORT
Population Served
2,640
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
WA53AA317
Frequently Asked Questions About Cle Elum Water
Is Cle Elum tap water safe to drink?
Cle Elum, Washington tap water receives a grade of C (51/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 162 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Cle Elum's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Cle Elum's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Cle Elum have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cle Elum has 162 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MON, MR, TT. 82 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Cle Elum?
Cle Elum 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Cle Elum's tap water come from?
Cle Elum's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BASIN WATER SOURCES INC and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 6,011 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Cle Elum'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. Cle Elum'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 Cle Elum's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Cle Elum's water quality score of 51/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Washington state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cle Elum's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cle Elum'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 (BASIN WATER SOURCES INC) 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.